The
New England Confederation came together in
1643 to discourage attacks from other colonies such as the Dutch in nearby
New Netherlands, and
American Indians. Named the
United Colonies of New England, it was formed by New Haven, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Plymouth.
Rhode Island and other
New England colonies were excluded on religious and political grounds. After Massachusetts refused to join in fighting a war against the Dutch, the confederation foundered, finally coming to an end in
1684.
