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Why might the Dutch have been less interested in converting native Americans than the French, Spanish, or Puritan English?

User Dan Walker
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Final answer:

The Dutch may have been less interested in converting Native Americans due to their emphasis on religious tolerance, economic focus on trade, and poor leadership by the Dutch West India Company.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Dutch might have been less interested in converting Native Americans than the French, Spanish, or Puritan English for several reasons:

1. Religious Tolerance: The Dutch had a reputation for religious toleration, allowing different beliefs and practices. They may have been less inclined to try and convert Native Americans to their specific religious beliefs.

2. Economic Focus: The Dutch focused on trade and profit-making, particularly in the fur trade. They were more interested in establishing economic relationships with the Native Americans rather than converting them to their religion.

3. Arbitrary Government: The Dutch West India Company, which governed New Netherland, had a history of poor leadership and arbitrary rule. This may have made the Dutch less effective in attempting to convert Native Americans compared to other colonial powers.

User Leap Bun
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