Which of the following companies founded in 1602 is also known as the 'Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC)'?

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (B) Dutch East India Company

Explanation:

• The company founded in 1602 and known as the 'Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC)' is the Dutch East India Company.
• The VOC was a powerful trading corporation established by the Dutch to control trade in Asia, particularly in the spice trade.
• It was one of the most influential companies in world history, playing a major role in the Dutch colonial empire.
• The VOC was the first company to issue bonds and shares, effectively pioneering modern-day stock trading.

Information Booster:

• Founded: 1602 in the Netherlands
• Significance: It became one of the world's first multinational corporations and one of the first to be listed on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange.
• Operations: Primarily focused on trade routes across Asia, including Indonesia, India, and China.
• First Factory in India: The first VOC factory in India was established in Masulipatnam (Andhra Pradesh) in 1605.
• Key Battles:
• Battle of Colachel (1741): A significant battle where the Dutch East India Company was defeated by the forces of the Kingdom of Travancore, marking a decline in Dutch influence in southern India.
• Battle of Biderra (1759): Also known as the Battle of Bedara or Battle of Chinsurah, this battle took place near Chinsurah in Bengal. The British East India Company decisively defeated the Dutch East India Company, marking a significant decline in Dutch power in India.