A number of uprisings in the American…

A number of uprisings in the American colonies against royal officials suspected of being Catholics occur after William and Mary ascend the English throne in the Glorious Revolution.

Discontented artisans and small traders led by the prominent Calvinist merchant Jacob Leisler rebel against the crown's agent in New York, Lieutenant Governor Francis Nicholson.

Nicholson flees to England on May 3 when his fort is seized by Leisler's rebellious force.

Supported by small farmers, city workers, and the militia, Leisler sets himself up as head of a revolutionary government that subsequently appoints him commander in chief.

He acknowledges the sovereignty of William and Mary and rules southern New York in their name.

He assumes the title of lieutenant governor in December, and, appointing a council, takes charge of the entire province.