Windmills weren't crucial for shipbuilding per se, but they were crucial for building a merchant fleet bigger than that of the rest of Europe combined, and that would shape the whole of modern Europe.
Windmills have significantly shaped the Netherlands in various ways, influencing its landscape, economy, culture, and engineering practices. In summary, windmills played a pivotal role in the progress of European countries by enhancing agricultural productivity, driving industrial development, fostering economic growth, promoting cultural exchange, managing environmental resources, and contributing to social cohesion. Their influence can still be seen in the modern emphasis on renewable energy and sustainable practices.
