Provides a history of the state, discussing the attempts by the Dutch and the Swedes to settle there, the colonization by the British, relations with the Lenni-Lanape tribe, and the use of indentured servants and slaves in the colony. Eye-catching graphics and engaging narrative create a compelling picture of life in colonial New Jersey. Originally settled by the Dutch as part of their "New Netherland," New Jersey did not flourish as a colony until it came under British control in 1664. Readers will learn how the promise of political and religious freedom led to its becoming the first Quaker colony in America and one of the most ethnically diverse. They'll learn how for a while it was divided into East and West Jersey, how it had its own version of the Boston Tea Party, and how its location between New York City and Philadelphia made it the site of nearly 100 battles during the struggle for independence that eventually led to its becoming the nation's third state.

Colonial beginnings -- An English colony -- The people of New Jersey -- Life in royal New Jersey -- Servants and slaves in New Jersey -- Colony at a crossroads -- Life in a prospering colony -- The desire for independence.