Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919). New York. 1906.

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VI. The Usurpation of Leisler. 1689-1691.

THE overthrow of the Stuart dynasty, and the consequent sudden fall of Andros, brought about the collapse of the existing government in New YorkThere followed a period of turmoil and disorder, marked by a curious party fight and revolution, or rather attempted revolution, which in its various phases well illustrated the peculiar characteristics of New York life.

The relaxing of the bonds of authority allowed the jealousies between the different classes of the population to come to a head. The mass of the citizens,—the men of small means, who in the best of times had enjoyed but little influence in the political life of the colony,—were sullenly hostile to the aristocratic and conservative class of crown officials, patroons, rich merchants, and the like. The ferment in men’s minds enormously increased the activity of the forces that were tending to collision. After Andros was imprisoned the conservative faction wished to continue in power the existing officers, appointed by King James, until they could be replaced by others bearing commissions from King William. The popular party, on the other hand, was for immediate action. Their

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