How World War II Made the Netherlands a Cycling Nation 🚲🇳🇱 (English)

Discover how the Netherlands became the world’s most bike-friendly country! From World War II shortages to 1970s street protests, this video tells the powerful and surprising story behind Dutch cycling culture. Learn how bicycles became a symbol of resilience, safety, and everyday life in the Netherlands.

Whether you’re a history lover, a cycling fan, or just curious about Dutch life—this is a story you don’t want to miss!

Watch now and find out why the Dutch still say: “Give me back my bike!”

Before the Netherlands became famous for its bike friendly cities, it went through a dramatic history shaped by war, shortages, and public protests. In this story, we’ll explore how the bicycle became not just a way to travel, but a symbol of Dutch resilience and identity. During World War II, the German army seized many Dutch civilian cars, bicycles, and fuel. All resources were redirected to the military. This created major shortages. There was no gasoline and almost no transport left for ordinary people. Dutch citizens had to get creative. Some Dutch people later joked, “The Germans took our cars and fuel, so now we cycle to catch up with them.” Even today, the phrase, “Give me back my bike,” is still heard as a playful jab at history. After the war, the Netherlands was in ruins. Roads were damaged and cars were either destroyed or missing. Bicycles became the most affordable and reliable form of transport. Many people repaired old bikes or used whatever they could find. In the 1950s and60s, cycling became more common. But as cars returned, cities grew more dangerous for cyclists. Many accidents happened, especially involving children. In the 1970s, the people took action. Parents shouted, “Stop the child murder.” Demanding safer streets. The government listened and began building separate bike paths. Since then, the Netherlands has become a true cycling nation. Today, people ride bikes to school, work, and shops. There are even more bikes than people. Cycling is not just convenient, it’s a central part of Dutch culture.