Why Orange Anyway

I am asked often "Why Orange . . . why not chartruese or  turquoise?"

The reason is simple . . .  "Hendricks," and by extension I, am Dutch.

Note the prevalence of Orange in the flag of the Netherlands.

oops . . .  there isn't any.

It actually comes from the Principality of Orange (now in Southern France)

The Principality of Orange existed until the early 1700's, when it became complicated.

In 1851 France finally ceded and allowed the establishment of the Netherlands.

Coat of arms of Queen Beatrix, current ruler of the Netherlands.

What I find most interesting . . .

The word never really was "orange"

It was Oranje (from: William Van Oranje)

Words to "We Love Orange"

the Dutch National Football song:

Together we're strong.

Unity makes powerful.

How a small country can be great.

Isn't that beautiful?

Netherlands oh Netherlands.

You're the champion.

We love Orange.

Because of its deeds and its doings.

Later when the red-white-blue.

will be hoisted for us.

Then we're a big family.

With gold we're praised.

Netherlands oh Netherlands.

You're the champion.

We love Orange.

Because of its deeds and its doings.

From the stand sounds the Wilhelmus.

Now even more beautiful than before.

Oh, who doesn't let tears flow?

Netherlands oh Netherlands.

You're the champion.

We love Orange.

Because of its deeds and its doings.

We love Orange.

It's the true champion.