New Amsterdam

New Amsterdam was the Dutch colonial town that later became New York City.

What Happened

Dutch settlers built New Amsterdam on the southern tip of Manhattan in the 1600s. It was an important trading settlement.

Why It Matters

In 1664, England took control and renamed it New York. Some place names in New York still show Dutch roots.

Fun Facts

  • Dutch settlers built New Amsterdam on the southern tip of Manhattan in the 1600s.
  • It was an important trading settlement.
  • In 1664, England took control and renamed it New York.
  • Some place names in New York still show Dutch roots.

Did You Know?

Historians and learners study New Amsterdam by comparing written records, objects, buildings, maps, and careful questions.