Which colony was ruled by the Duke of York?

The correct answer is New York because, after the English seized control of the area from the Dutch in 1664, King Charles II granted the land to his brother, the Duke of York. The Duke of York subsequently became the proprietor of the New York colony, overseeing its governance and development. This transfer marked a significant shift in power, as the region had previously been known as New Netherland under Dutch control. The Duke of York implemented new systems of administration and land distribution, shaping the colony's future and contributing to its growth and diversity.

The other options represent different colonies with distinct histories and governance. Massachusetts was primarily established by Puritans seeking religious freedom, Delaware was originally part of Pennsylvania, gaining its own charter later, while New Jersey emerged as a separate colony from New York and was not directly ruled by the Duke of York. Understanding these differences in colonial governance helps clarify the role that figures like the Duke of York played in the early development of the American colonies.