Dongan, Thomas (dŏngˈgən) [key], 1634–1715, colonial governor of New York, b. Co. Kildare, Ireland. He was appointed governor in 1682, and on the instructions of the duke of York (later James II), he called (1683) a legislative assembly; measures, known as the Charter of Liberties and Privileges, were passed granting popular rights and religious toleration. These and subsequent enactments (1684, 1685) were not approved by James II, but were continued by virtue of a permanent charter for New York City secured by Dongan in 1686. He was replaced by Governor Andros in 1688. Dongan became 2d earl of Limerick in 1698.
See biography by J. H. Kennedy (1930, repr. 1974).
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