How did Hamburg remain active during the Thirty Years’ War?

Hamburg remained active and continued its business operations throughout the Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648) primarily due to its robust defensive preparations. Between 1616 and 1625, the city was so efficiently fortified that it was able to remain untroubled by the worst crises of the conflict.1

Additionally, Hamburg’s economic resilience during this period was bolstered by the influx of Dutch merchants who had emigrated to the Lower Elbe region following the wars of religion in the Low Countries during the late 16th century. This migration helped establish Hamburg as a central hub for international commerce.1