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Roses, Tulips, and Liberty (RTL) is a holistic alternate history project that imagines a world where the Dutch, rather than the British, emerged as the predominant force in North America from the 17th to 19th centuries. This fundamental shift in history results in a vastly different timeline, complete with unique events, historical figures, and nations, not only in the American continent but in the rest of the world as well.
The timeline delves into the rise of a different set of Great Powers and narrates the stories of other nations, such as Russia and Britain, as they navigate and exert influence in this altered world over the centuries.
The ripple effects of this alternate history impact the trajectories of various nations, leading to unexpected, and sometimes random, alliances, rivalries, and power dynamics. This project aims to trace the course of history from the 17th century to the present day, examining not only the rise of the Dutch but also the global impact of other major powers in this reimagined timeline.
Point of Divergence
In Roses, Tulips, and Liberty, the Dutch Republic establishes the colony of New Netherland in the 17th century, which in reality was ceded to England in 1667. In this alternate timeline, New Netherland repels the English invasion and becomes a base for further Dutch exploration in the Americas and diplomacy with indigenous nations, such as the Iroquois. This leads to conflicts between the Dutch Republic and Spain's colonial ambitions.
The World of Roses, Tulips, and Liberty
Full resolution here. Also see the 1895 and 1935 world maps.
Further Reading
Essential reading
- The nations of New Netherland and Tussenland, the focal points of Roses, Tulips, and Liberty.
- History of New Netherland: a must-read article for getting into RTL history. New Netherland was the first Dutch colony in North America.
- History of Tussenland: another essential read. Tussenland was the larger Dutch colony in North America.
Lore
- The Nations of the World: a non-comprehensive list of nations in RTL, including defunct ones
- History of Europe: for those curious with the happenings in Europe
- The Great War arc and Silent War arc (20th century)
- Lists of: languages, notable people (see all lists)
- Technology in RTL
- Political ideologies in RTL
Lists and other curiosities
- The Chronological Map Catalog: every map in RTL ever, in order
- Glossary of terms: terminologies unique to the RTL timeline
- Frequently Asked Questions
If you would like to ask questions, give feedback, you can reach us out via the Say/Ask anything thread pinned on the RTL Subreddit.
