The Exciting Rivalry between English and Dutch Colonies

What did the New England Confederation think of Dutch New Netherland?

Was it seen as a friend or a competitor?

Answer:

The New England Confederation considered Dutch New Netherland as a threat and a competitor.

The New England Confederation viewed Dutch New Netherland as a formidable rival in the colonial landscape of the mid-1600s. The rivalry between English and Dutch colonies led to intense competition and ultimately the English conquest of New Netherland.

During this period, the English colonies were expanding rapidly, and the presence of Dutch New Netherland posed a challenge to their expansion and control. The English, including the New England Confederation, perceived the Dutch as commercial competitors vying for power and influence in the region.

This competition culminated in the English seizing control of New Netherland in 1664, renaming it New York as a symbolic victory over their Dutch rivals. The Dutch influence, particularly in the fur trade and land distribution, left a lasting impact on the region.