6. The Old Dutch East India Company Made Its Way To A Pawn Shop
Also known as the Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC), the Dutch East India Company focused on trade, colonization, and exploration. Established in 1602, the company lasted until 1800 and historically remained one of the most influential international corporations.
The company started to decline in the late 1600s, especially once they lost their silk trades with China, and wars took over. Even with the decline, the company continued to use over 30 ships to successfully trade with various countries because of its robust business model that is still used today.