Here's why:
* Trade with the East: In the 16th and 17th centuries, the Dutch were a major maritime power and eager to trade with the rich and lucrative markets of the East Indies (present-day Indonesia and surrounding islands).
* Avoiding Portuguese and Spanish Control: The Portuguese and Spanish had a monopoly on trade routes to the East via the Indian Ocean, making it difficult and expensive for the Dutch to compete.
* Seeking a Shorter Route: A northwest passage through the Arctic would offer a much shorter and potentially safer route to Asia, bypassing the long and dangerous journey around Africa.
Although Hudson didn't find the mythical passage, his voyages had other significant consequences:
* Exploration and Mapping: Hudson's explorations helped map the North American coastline and establish the presence of the Hudson River, which became a crucial waterway for the Dutch.
* Foundation of New Netherland: The Dutch established a trading post at the mouth of the Hudson River, which later grew into the colony of New Netherland, encompassing parts of present-day New York, New Jersey, and Delaware.
So, while the Dutch were initially searching for the Northwest Passage, their explorations ultimately led to the establishment of a new colonial empire in North America.