1602day.year
The Dutch East India Company is established.
On March 20, 1602, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) was founded, marking the world’s first publicly traded joint-stock company.
On March 20, 1602, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) was established by the States General of the Netherlands.
It received a 21-year monopoly on Dutch trade in Asia and was empowered to build forts, maintain armies, and negotiate treaties.
As the world’s first multinational corporation, the VOC issued shares to investors, pioneering the joint-stock company model.
At its height, the company dominated the spice trade, amassed vast wealth, and laid the foundations of global capitalism.
With strategic outposts in Batavia, Colombo, and Ceylon, the VOC shaped colonial dynamics in South and Southeast Asia.
Its legacy includes innovations in corporate governance, maritime logistics, and international finance that endure today.
1602
Dutch East India Company
1903day.year
The first of a series of auctions of sheep farming land in southern Patagonia takes place impacting established settlers.
In 1903, the first auction of sheep ranch lands in southern Patagonia unsettles longtime settlers.
On March 20, 1903, authorities held the first in a series of auctions offering sheep farming land in southern Patagonia. Large tracts previously occupied by settlers were suddenly put up for sale to raise government revenue and encourage investment. Established ranchers, who had grazed flocks for generations, faced the threat of eviction or competing bids. The auctions sparked protests and legal disputes as local communities sought to defend their traditional land rights. Investors from Europe and Argentina flocked to acquire these fertile grasslands for profitable wool production. The controversy highlighted tensions between modernization, state control, and rural livelihoods at the edge of the empire. The outcome shaped the economic and social landscape of southern Patagonia for decades to come.
1903
a series of auctions
Patagonia
established settlers
1999day.year
Legoland California, the first Legoland outside of Europe, opens in Carlsbad, California, US.
Legoland California opens in 1999 as the first Legoland park outside Europe, offering themed attractions and rides in Carlsbad, California.
On March 20, 1999, Legoland California opens its gates in Carlsbad, becoming the first Legoland park in the United States.
Developed by the Lego Group, the park features miniature Lego models of iconic landmarks and hands-on attractions.
Visitors can explore themed areas such as Lego City, Castle Hill, and Pirate Shores.
The opening attracts families and Lego enthusiasts from across the country eager to experience interactive rides and exhibits.
Legoland California sets the stage for future parks in Florida, New York, and beyond.
The park stimulates local tourism and contributes to the regional economy, creating jobs and new business opportunities.
Its success cements Legoland's reputation as a leading global theme park brand.
1999
Legoland California
Legoland
Carlsbad, California