Colonial New Jersey Religion
Religion in settlementSettlement of New Jersey in the 1600s was characterized by a promise of religious liberty. The Dutch and Swedish, and later the English, realized offering religious freedom would attract more settlers.
|
Religious LibertyDissatisfaction with government in the New England colonies led many there to resettle in New Jersey. Despite changes in governance, religious liberty persevered in the colony. Many faiths lived in harmony together.
|
Quakers and West JerseyIn 1675, members of the Quakers, or Society of Friends, purchased West Jersey. The Quaker faith dominated West Jersey, and their religious influence created an environment distinctly different from East Jersey.
|