Description
French seaport on the North Sea, near the Belgian border, historically known for its privateering, fishing, and trade activities.
Year of Foundation or Oldest Source
First mentioned in the 7th century. A 4.5-acre dock already existed by 1686.
Country (State or Region)
France
Location
Dunkirk, Nord, France, on the coast of the North Sea/English Channel.
Structuring
Seaport. It already had docks and port infrastructure in the 17th century. It underwent later modernizations and expansions, especially in the 19th century.
Notes
Famous as a base for French privateers, such as Jean Bart, who attacked enemy ships (especially Dutch and English) in the 17th and 18th centuries. It participated in colonial trade and played a minor role in the slave trade (41 recorded expeditions). Its strategic location on the North Sea made it an important port for fishing (especially for herring and cod in Iceland) and trade with Northern Europe. Its port infrastructure was already notable by the late 17th century.
Sources
LIVERPOOL MARITIME SOCIETY. The Liverpool Dock System. [s.d.].; WIKIPEDIA. Traite négrière à Nantes. [s.d.].
