The Formative Role of "White" Culture in the Colonies:

Delving into WASP, Dutch, English, and Ecclesiastical Origins

As we continue on with the series of “Who were you before you were white”, I would like to delve into the beginning of colonial “white” culture its origins, and the 3 main components of said culture.

In our preceding discussion on the genesis and intricacies of the construct of the "white race," we unearthed the manner in which diverse European ethnicities were homogenized into a singular category, largely for socio-economic and political purposes. Now, let's delve deeper into the cultural substrate upon which this identity was layered – specifically, the impact of the WASP (White Anglo-Saxon Protestant) ideal, the influence of Dutch and English traditions, and the historical tussles between the Catholic and Protestant churches.

1. The WASP Ideal: A Benchmark of Colonial "Whiteness"

The WASP identity is intrinsically linked with a specific subset of the "white" demographic – those of English descent and Protestant faith. Over time, in the North American context especially, the WASP archetype became emblematic of socio-economic privilege, political influence, and cultural dominance. The perpetuation of the WASP ideal meant not just the physical attributes or heritage but also a specific socio-cultural ethos – characterized by values, norms, and traditions rooted in English Protestant culture.

2. Dutch and English Cultural Imprints

While the English influence is evident in the WASP characterization, the Dutch cultural imprint on colonial "white" culture is less overt but significant. As early settlers in regions that would later become New York and New Jersey, Dutch colonial culture infused the fabric of North American society, from architecture to governance structures. Though they merged into the broader "white" identity, remnants of their influence, like certain customs, festivals, and place names, linger on.