Freedom of Conscience | Dutch New York

Explore how the Dutch concept of “freedom of conscience” impacted the practice of religion in the New Amsterdam colony. Using a video from the documentary Dutch New York, discussion questions, and teaching tips, students will learn about how Dutch colonial leaders governed inhabitants with a variety of religious beliefs. They will also analyze how a protest by Quakers in Flushing provided roots of both religious freedom in the United States and a tradition of dissent in American history.