where does the phrase dutch courage come from
Dutch courage The popular story dates the etymology of the term Dutch courage to English soldiers fighting in the Anglo-Dutch Wars[2] (1652–1674) and perhaps as early as the Thirty Years' War (1618–1648). One version states that jenever (or Dutch gin) was used by English soldiers for its calming effects before battle, and for its purported warming properties on the body in cold weather (a false belief, as alcohol provides a temporary feeling of warmth, but actually lowers body temperature). Another version has it that English soldiers noted the bravery-inducing effects of jenever on Dutch soldiers.