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At the end of the 16th century, Amsterdam's defensive system needed to be updated and expanded. Plans were already in the making since 1566, but due to political and military upheaval construction was delayed until in 1585. In its wake, new areas for econonomic activity and habitation were created. Amsterdam was groing and needed new space all the time. On the eastern side of town, space was made on artifical islands such as Uilenburg, Vlooienburg, Rapenburg and Marken, connected with bridges. The wood trade and ship building industry were to be relocated to this area.