Fishermen and farmers, by Arent Arentsz called Cabel, first half 17th century. Because the population increased demand for food rose. Arable and livestock farming flourished. Large investments were made in agriculture. To obtain more land, massive areas still under water were drained dry to create polders. Agricultural products were not just for the Dutch market. Meat, cheese, butter, fruit, beer and tobacco were all exported in large quantities.