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Pedal Power: The Dutch Cycling Revolution

Pedal Power: The Dutch Cycling Revolution

How the Netherlands Became the World's Cycling Capital

Goodnewsr Team
October 24, 2023

The Netherlands, with its picturesque canals and windmills, is globally renowned for one more thing: bicycles.

With more bikes than people, it's a cyclist's paradise. But how did this tiny nation become the world's cycling capital?

Let's embark on a two-wheeled journey through time.

The Golden Age of Cycling

The 1920s and 30s marked the Netherlands' first golden age of cycling. With the country's flat terrain and mild temperatures, bicycles became the primary mode of transportation for many. Cities even began constructing dedicated cycling paths, making the streets safe for everyone, from the elderly to children.

Fast forward to the 1950s and 60s, and the scene dramatically shifted. Cars began to dominate the roads, and urban planners envisioned a future where bicycles were relics of the past. Plans were proposed to demolish historic neighborhoods and even fill iconic canals to make way for highways. But the Dutch spirit wasn't one to back down.

The Rise of the Provos and Preservationists

Enter the Provos, a group of anarchists, and the preservationists, who cherished Amsterdam's historic charm. Together, they rallied against the modernist vision of a car-centric city.

The bicycle became their symbol of resistance against the fast-paced, capitalist world of automobiles.

The tragic death of a six-year-old girl named Simone Langenhoff in a traffic accident became a catalyst for change. Her father's heartfelt plea led to the formation of "Stop de Kindermoord" (Stop Child Murder).

This movement, combined with the oil crisis of 1973, which led to "Car Free Sundays," shifted the nation's perspective on road safety and transportation.

The Dutch Cyclists’ Union: Pioneers of Change

Established in 1975, the Dutch Cyclists’ Union championed the cause of cyclists. They meticulously surveyed members, identifying road safety issues and advocating for better cycling infrastructure.

Their efforts culminated in the creation of a design manual, which laid the foundation for the Netherlands' world-class cycling infrastructure.

The Perfect Storm

A combination of historical events, from the preservationists' efforts to the Cyclists’ Union's activism, created a perfect storm that transformed the Netherlands into a cycling haven.

Today, the country boasts over 20,000 miles of dedicated cycling paths, and international policymakers flock to the Netherlands to learn the secrets of its cycling success.

The Dutch cycling revolution is a testament to the power of community, activism, and vision. It reminds us that with determination and unity, we can shape our cities and societies for the better.

Next time you hop on a bike in Amsterdam or Utrecht, remember the journey that made it all possible.