Leisler's Rebellion in New York

Background. New York was added to the Dominion of New England in May 1688. Leisler opposed this regime, viewing it as an attempt to impose popery. The uprising occurred in the aftermath of the Glorious Revolution of November 1688 and the 1689 Boston revolt.

The Uprising. On May 30, 1689, Nicholson's intemperate remark to a militia officer flared into open rebellion. Leisler, a vocal opponent of the regime, seized control of the southern colony. On June 6, Nicholson decided to leave for England and began gathering depositions for proceedings there.

Consolidation of Power. Leisler's initial control was limited, but by April 1690, he had appointed officials in virtually every community. He gained control of Albany early in 1690 and organized an expedition against New France. Protests emerged from Dutch Harlem, English Queens County, and Albany in October 1690.

Restoration of Royal Authority. Royal authority was restored in 1691 when English troops and a new governor were sent to New York. Governor Sloughter died in July 1691. On April 17, the assembly passed a bill condemning Leisler's government and blaming him for the 1690 Schenectady massacre.