What does dam in Amsterdam mean?

Most tourist guides say that Amsterdam developed around a dam built in the river Amstel around 1270 AD, and that this dam which was located at present-day Dam Square — gave the city its name. Hence the name ‘Aemsterdam’ literally meant ‘people who have settled at the dike along the river. ‘

What is the nickname for the city of Amsterdam?

The word Mokum, or “place,” is Amsterdam’s version of New York’s Big Apple — a nickname indistinguishable from the city it romanticizes.

Why did Allies bomb Amsterdam?

Why did Germany attack the Netherlands? The Netherlands (and Belgium) were located in a strategic position between Germany and France. The route was logical for both the Germans and allies as fortifications were weak compared to the actual border between France and Germany.

Did Amsterdam get bombed?

The daring assault had a significant psychological impact on the residents of Amsterdam as well as the Nazi occupiers. However, it was only partially successful in destroying the civil registry. Only 15% of the records were completely destroyed.

Which is the most famous square in Amsterdam?

The iconic square of Amsterdam, Dam Square — or just “de Dam” in Dutch — is the first stop on many a visitor’s itinerary, not least because of its close proximity to Amsterdam Central Station.

Where was Amsterdam Dam Square in May 1945?

Canadian soldiers finally liberated the Netherlands in May 1945. On May 7 th 1945 – the very same day Germany surrendered to the Allied Forces under Eisenhower, Churchill and Montgomery – German Forces in Amsterdam started firing into the celebrating crowd of Dutch citizens at the Dam Square. Amsterdam, Dam Square, 5 May 1945.

What was the Amsterdam general strike of February 1941?

The Amsterdam General Strike of February 1941, what the Dutch termed the Februaristaking, deserves to be known, understood, and remembered. The Dutch armed forces surrendered on May 14, 1940, the fifth day of the German invasion and the day after Queen Wilhemina and the government fled The Hague to London.

Where did the Battle of Amsterdam take place?

The brutal act on May 7th 1945, took the lives of 32 innocent civilians. Two hundred and thirty one (231) others were wounded. Amsterdammers tried to hide in long narrow rows behind lantern posts and behind a street organ, showing the complete vulnerability of the unarmed people in the street. Amsterdam, Dam Square, May 7th 1945.