Patroon definitions
| Word backwards | noortap |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The word "patroon" can function as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a landlord in Dutch-speaking countries or a person who held a large estate in colonial America. As a verb, it means to act as a patroon or to own large landholdings. |
| Syllabic division | pat-roon |
| Plural | The plural of the word "patroon" is "patroons." |
| Total letters | 7 |
| Vogais (2) | a,o |
| Consonants (4) | p,t,r,n |
Patroons were individuals who held large land grants in the Dutch colonies of North America during the 17th and 18th centuries. These land grants, known as patroonships, were established to encourage the settlement of the colonies by offering large plots of land to wealthy individuals who agreed to bring a certain number of settlers to work the land.
Patroons were responsible for the management of their estates and the welfare of the settlers who lived and worked on their land. They often acted as feudal lords, with significant power and influence over the daily lives of those on their plantations.
Patroonships
A patroonship typically consisted of a large tract of land along a river or other waterway, with the patroon holding legal and economic control over the settlement. The patroon was expected to provide housing, tools, and other necessities to the settlers in exchange for their labor on the estate.
Feudal System
The patroonships in the Dutch colonies operated under a feudal system, with the patroon acting as a lord and the settlers as his tenants. This system often led to conflicts between the patroon and the settlers, as the former sought to maximize profits while the latter sought to improve their own living conditions.
Legacy
The system of patroonships had a lasting impact on the development of the Dutch colonies in North America, shaping the social and economic structures of the region. While the institution of patroonships was eventually abolished, its influence can still be seen in the patterns of land ownership and settlement in the former Dutch colonies.
Patroon Examples
- The patroon of the company was known for his generous bonuses.
- The wealthy landowner acted as the local patroon, overseeing the community.
- In the 17th century, Dutch settlers established a patroon system along the Hudson River.
- The patroon granted the farmer permission to use a portion of his land.
- As the patroon of the estate, he had authority over all decisions.
- The patroon's manor was an impressive building overlooking the river.
- The patroon held a position of power and influence in the colonial government.
- The workers on the plantation were subject to the orders of the patroon.
- The patroon's family had owned the land for generations.
- The role of the patroon was essential in the development of early New Netherland.