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Going back to the founding colonies of New Amsterdam, the Dutch made their mark on American history early on. Despite this fact however much of their culture and earliest history in America was far overshadowed by the English who dominated in language, government and economic influence. The Dutch would, however, return in the 19th century and establish a more lasting presence in America.
The Dutch like many other immigrant groups were attracted to the United States by the promise of a better life and material wealth. Though like other immigrant groups religious freedom also played a major role in motivating immigrants. After the defeat of Napoleon the new king of Holland, William I, restored the state run church and excommunicated any dissenters. Those who disagreed with the kings new policies were social outcasts and suffered discrimination. America was the best option for these political and religious enemies. The nation was also experiencing a depression. Jobs were hard to find and the taxes were high due to the immense war debt following the Napoleonic wars.
Prominent religious leaders Henry P. Scholte and Albertus C. Van Raalte wrote several pamphlets praising America as the land of religious freedom and economic opportunity. Van Raalte toured the United States seeking a suitable place for the Dutch to live. He finally settled on Michigan. Scholte advocated living in Iowa and his followers settled largely in Pella, Iowa. Both Iowa and Michigan gave a cordial welcome to the Dutch. The typical Dutch immigrant of the 19th century was a homesteader raising livestock and crops.
The Dutch like many other immigrant groups were attracted to the United States by the promise of a better life and material wealth. Though like other immigrant groups religious freedom also played a major role in motivating immigrants. After the defeat of Napoleon the new king of Holland, William I, restored the state run church and excommunicated any dissenters. Those who disagreed with the kings new policies were social outcasts and suffered discrimination. America was the best option for these political and religious enemies. The nation was also experiencing a depression. Jobs were hard to find and the taxes were high due to the immense war debt following the Napoleonic wars.
Prominent religious leaders Henry P. Scholte and Albertus C. Van Raalte wrote several pamphlets praising America as the land of religious freedom and economic opportunity. Van Raalte toured the United States seeking a suitable place for the Dutch to live. He finally settled on Michigan. Scholte advocated living in Iowa and his followers settled largely in Pella, Iowa. Both Iowa and Michigan gave a cordial welcome to the Dutch. The typical Dutch immigrant of the 19th century was a homesteader raising livestock and crops.
A Century Later
Dutch Americans are still found primarily in the Midwest.