A "Patroon" was a landholder in the Dutch colony of New Netherland during the 17th century. This system was established to encourage settlement and agriculture by granting large tracts of land to individuals who would bring settlers to the area. In return, the Patroons were expected to develop the land and manage the settlers. The Patroon system was significant in shaping the early economy and society of what is now New York. Prominent Patroons included figures like Kiliaen van Rensselaer, who established the Rensselaerswyck estate. The system eventually declined as the English took control of the colony and changed land ownership policies.