A Dutch American is an American of Dutch descent.
Following the exploration of the American East Coast by Henry Hudson on behalf of the Dutch East India Company in 1609, Dutch settlement in the Americas started in 1613. From then on a number of villages, including New Amsterdam on the East Coast, which would become the future world metropolis of New York City, were established by Dutch immigrants. According to the 2000 United States Census, more than 5 million Americans claim total or partial Dutch heritage. Today the majority of the Dutch Americans live in Michigan, California, Montana, Minnesota, New York, Wisconsin, Idaho, Utah, Iowa, Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Read more about Dutch American: Dutch (American) Influence On America, Dutch Traditions, Dutch Language and Dutch Names in North America, Dutch-American Heritage Day, Dutch-American Friendship Day, Dutch Heritage Festivals, Religion, Numbers, Notable Dutch Americans
Famous quotes containing the words dutch and/or american:
“‘Tis probable Religion after this
Came next in order; which they could not miss.
How could the Dutch but be converted, when
The Apostles were so many fishermen?
Besides the waters of themselves did rise,
And, as their land, so them did re-baptize.”
—Andrew Marvell (1621–1678)
“My wish for the American woman is that she may always be an elevating influence—man’s inspiration. Let him go forth to duty while she weaves the spell which makes home a paradise to which he may return, ever welcome, whether he is victor or vanquished.”
—Rutherford Birchard Hayes (1822–1893)