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NJNew Jersey History
New Jersey at a glance
New Jersey was admitted to the Union on 1787, making it the 2nd state. As one of the original 13 colonies, New Jersey was a founding member of the United States. Its capital Trenton has been the seat of state government for most of the state's history.
Native peoples
For thousands of years before European contact, Indigenous peoples lived across what is now New Jersey. Multiple distinct cultures developed in response to the region's geography — coastal peoples, plains peoples, river-valley peoples, mountain peoples — each with their own languages, governance, and trade networks. European colonization disrupted these civilizations dramatically, often through disease, displacement, and forced removal. Today, New Jersey's Native heritage is preserved in place names, tribal nations within state borders, and ongoing cultural practices.
Colonial era and Revolution
As one of the 13 original colonies, New Jersey was central to the founding of the United States. British colonization of the region began in the 17th century. By the 1770s, colonial assemblies were resisting British taxation policies, and New Jersey sent delegates to the Continental Congress that declared independence in 1776. New Jersey fought in the Revolutionary War alongside the other 12 colonies and ratified the US Constitution between 1787 and 1790, depending on the specific date.
Path to statehood
The path from European exploration to statehood typically took decades. New Jersey was already an established colony when the US declared independence in 1776, becoming a state with the ratification of the US Constitution by 1787.
The modern era
Today New Jersey has a population of 5 to 10 million and is one of the smallest states in the country. The capital is Trenton; the largest city is Newark. The political lean has shifted over time and now leans reliably Democratic.
Key historical sites in New Jersey
New Jersey preserves its history through state parks, national monuments, historic districts, and museums. Battlefields, colonial towns, mission sites, Native American heritage areas, and Civil Rights landmarks (where applicable) anchor the state's heritage tourism. Visit the state's official tourism site for a current list.
Bordering states
New Jersey shares borders with 3 other US states.
Learn US history through daily puzzles
Statedoku uses statehood era, Confederate or Union role, and admission years as recurring constraints. After a month of daily play, you'll know exactly when and how each state joined the Union.
Play today's puzzle →Common questions about New Jersey history
When did New Jersey become a state?
New Jersey became a state in 1787, making it the 2nd state admitted to the Union. It was one of the 13 original colonies.
Was New Jersey part of the Confederacy?
No, New Jersey was a Union state during the Civil War.
Was New Jersey part of the Louisiana Purchase?
No.
Did Spain or France colonize New Jersey?
New Jersey was primarily under British colonial influence.
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