Since the middle of the 19th century, armed neutrality had been the pillar of Dutch military strategy. From 1900, this was implemented not only by the purely defensive concept of “Fortress Holland” on the country's western borders, but also by a German-style mobile field army that would protect the eastern or southern borders. Strategic complications emanated from the almost indefensible eccentric areas in the southwest (where possible British actions could be directed towards Antwerp) and southeast (the German passage to France). Any obvious one-sided preparation to defend against only one potential enemy was considered unacceptable by the government because it meant choosing sides. This conflict was never properly discussed, let alone resolved and created severe military-political tension, which culminated in 1918. ... : 1914-1918-Online International Encyclopedia of the First World War ...