2026 has begun. The future is open. In any case, municipal elections will be held on March 18. But how exactly was Amsterdam doing a century ago? Remarkably well! 1926 was a prosperous year.
From 1919 to 1929, the Netherlands experienced 10 years of uninterrupted economic growth. Even people with little money had reason to hope for a better future. Yet it was not only a carefree time. The happy twenties were overshadowed by the First World War and the fear that this horror might ever repeat itself. Even though the Netherlands was neutral at the time.
Back to 1926
Looking back at 1926, we see the city in full development. The first thing that stands out is that so much was built for the 727,000 residents living in 180,000 homes. Now there are 935,000 people living in 516,000 homes.
Roaring twenties
The roaring twenties were not very noticeable in Amsterdam. Of course, there was partying, dancing, and drinking, but not like in New York, Paris, and Berlin. If you look at the photos, you mainly see a bourgeois and solid city, with social-democratic and also liberal ideals.
Photos: Amsterdam City Archives