Province of New Jersey
The Province of New Jersey was one of the original Thirteen Colonies in British America, situated along the Atlantic coast. The province existed from 1664 until 1776, when it joined the other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain and becoming the U.S. state of New Jersey.
Colonial Foundation
The area now known as New Jersey was originally settled by the Dutch as part of the colony of New Netherland. The English seized control of New Netherland in 1664 during the Second Anglo-Dutch War, and the territory was subsequently granted to Sir George Carteret and Lord Berkeley of Stratton. The grant led to the establishment of the Province of New Jersey.
Division into East and West Jersey
In 1674, the province was divided into two distinct regions: East Jersey and West Jersey, based on the terms of the Quintipartite Deed. East Jersey was largely settled by Scottish and English immigrants, whereas West Jersey attracted a significant number of Quakers, including notable figures such as William Penn.
East Jersey
East Jersey was primarily governed from Perth Amboy and had a more Anglicized culture. It was administered by several different governors, including Philip Carteret. The region experienced frequent disputes with neighboring colonies, particularly over its borders.
West Jersey
West Jersey, with its capital at Burlington, was more influenced by Quaker principles, emphasizing religious freedom and equitable land distribution. It was governed by individuals such as Edward Byllynge.
Unification and Royal Colony
In 1702, East and West Jersey were united into a single royal colony under the governance of the Crown. This unification was partly due to administrative inefficiencies and border disputes between the two regions. The first royal governor of the unified province was Lord Cornbury, who also served as the governor of New York.
Governance
Throughout its colonial period, the Province of New Jersey was governed by a series of appointed governors. Until 1738, it shared governors with the neighboring Province of New York. The last colonial governor before the American Revolution was William Franklin, the son of Benjamin Franklin.
Revolution and Statehood
New Jersey was active in the movement towards independence, participating in the First and Second Continental Congress. On July 2, 1776, the New Jersey Provincial Congress adopted a new state constitution, and on July 4, it voted to approve the Declaration of Independence.