Dutch Americans facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 4,533,617 1.43% of the U.S. population (2013) |
|
| Regions with significant populations | |
| West Coast especially in California, Mountain states especially in Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado, Northeast especially in Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey, Midwest especially in Iowa, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois, Nebraska, Kansas, and the Dakotas | |
| Languages | |
| English, Dutch | |
| Religion | |
| 74% Protestant; 10% Roman Catholic, 15% other | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Dutch people, Dutch Brazilians, Dutch Canadians, Dutch Surinamese, Afrikaners, Pennsylvania Dutch, Belgian Americans |
Dutch Americans are people in the United States whose families originally came from the Netherlands. They are different from the Pennsylvania Dutch, who are mostly of German descent. Dutch settlement in America began a long time ago.
Contents
Who are Dutch Americans?
Dutch Americans are citizens of the United States. Their ancestors moved from the Netherlands to America. Many Dutch Americans still share parts of their Dutch heritage. This includes traditions, language, and sometimes even food.
Where do Dutch Americans live?
Today, you can find Dutch Americans all over the U.S. Many live in the Midwest. States like Michigan, Iowa, and Wisconsin have large Dutch American communities. There are also many in the Northeast. This includes New York and New Jersey. Some also live on the West Coast, especially in California.
Dutch History in America
The first Dutch settlers arrived in America in the early 1600s. They were looking for new opportunities. They also wanted to trade for furs.
New Netherland Colony
In 1613, the Dutch started a settlement called New Amsterdam. This place is now known as New York City. The Dutch also created a larger colony called New Netherland. This colony included parts of what are now New York and New Jersey.
Life in New Netherland
The Dutch built farms and trading posts. They traded with Native American tribes. They also brought their culture and traditions. The Van Bergen farm in New York shows a typical Dutch farm from that time.
English Takeover
In 1667, the English took control of New Netherland. This happened after a trade with the Dutch. The English gave the Dutch control of Suriname in South America. In return, the English got New Netherland. They renamed New Amsterdam to New York City. They also split the colony into New York and New Jersey.
Later Immigration Waves
More Dutch people came to America later on. Many arrived in the 1800s and 1900s. They often came seeking religious freedom. They also looked for better farmland. These new immigrants helped build many towns and cities.
Dutch American Culture
Dutch Americans have kept many traditions alive. These traditions connect them to their heritage.
Language and Religion
Most Dutch Americans speak English. However, some older generations or specific communities might still speak Dutch. Many Dutch Americans are Protestant. Some are also Roman Catholic.
Traditions and Celebrations
One famous Dutch tradition is Sinterklaas. This is a celebration similar to Christmas. It happens in early December. Children receive gifts from Sinterklaas. This tradition is still celebrated by many Dutch American families.
Images for kids
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Main areas where Dutch Americans live (2000)
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The main Dutch colonies in North America
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The Van Bergen farm, 1733, near Albany, New York—a Dutch-style farm
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Sinterklaas, a Dutch tradition
See also
In Spanish: Neerlando-estadounidenses para niños
