I have recently finished "The Dutch Republic" by Jonathan Israel and got inspired for a timeline idea. Basicly the idea is this: France and the Netherlands were allied during the last stages of the Dutch revolt; what if that alliance would have continued after the end of the Dutch revolt? Bascly I belive both countries could have profited from an alliance. For France it would have meant an ally to neutralise from threat of the Habsburg northern border. Both countries could have kicked the Habsburgs out of the Southern Netherlands. It would secure France's northern border and together with the Dutch navy France would a match for the English. For the Netherlands an alliance with France would mean less danger on the European continent (France was basicly the main enemy during the late 17th and 18th century for the Netherlands) and a good ally against the English.
Basicly the idea is that the Netherlands and France both are able to focus less on Europe (since there are any major threads) and more on overseas colonies,forming a counterweight to English colonisation. In short, instead of England dominating it would lead to a more balanced situation. Both the Netherlands as France will be doing better. Mind you, I am not planning a Dutch or French wank. For example not all of Belgium will end up Dutch. There will be no huge big colonial Dutch empire etc. They will do better than OTL, but not unreasonably so. The same is true for France. For example France will not get the Rhineborder (how can it, if the Netherlands is in the way). There will be no French speaking USA analog, etc. Neither will it be a Brit screw. Although England will lose some of its colonies to France and or the Netherlands, it will still remain a formidable colonial power, just not as strong as OTL. As I said, I want a more balanced situation.
I have already some idea what I want to do. I know the POD (stadholder WIllem II lives). I know where I want to go and got some good idea how the first couple of updates look like. But I will not start anything if noone cares. Also I might need some help. Especialy for things like maps. Maybe for writing or proofreading (my English isn't that great as you might have noticed). Maybe for some advice on areas of history I know not that much about. So I included this poll. Please vote, please comment or offer your help.