New York

New York state has an abundance of natural beauty and a rich history. It truly is a gem of the Northeast.
Robert De Niro in CBS News
New York, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, has a rich and diverse history. Colonized by the Dutch in the early 17th century and named New Amsterdam, it was ceded to the English in 1664 and renamed New York in honor of the Duke of York. The state played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War, hosting key battles and serving as the first capital of the United States. In the 19th century, it rapidly industrialized and became a hub of immigration, particularly through Ellis Island, leading to its cultural mosaic. New York City emerged as a global economic and cultural powerhouse, with iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Times Square. The state also witnessed the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001. Today, New York remains a vibrant center of finance, culture, and innovation, encompassing both bustling urban life and picturesque rural landscapes.
Brief timeline of the history of the state of New York:

  • 1609: English explorer Henry Hudson sails up the river now known as the Hudson River, exploring the region of present-day New York.
  • 1624: The Dutch West India Company establishes the colony of New Netherland, with New Amsterdam (later becoming New York City) as its capital.
  • 1664: The English capture New Netherland from the Dutch and rename it New York in honor of the Duke of York.
  • 1785: New York City becomes the capital of the United States for a brief period.
  • 1788: New York becomes the 11th state to ratify the United States Constitution, officially joining the Union.
  • Early 19th century: The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, connects the Great Lakes to the Hudson River, transforming New York City into a major commercial center and opening up the western interior of the United States for trade and settlement.
  • Mid-19th century: The wave of immigration to New York increases, with a significant influx of Irish, German, and Italian immigrants, contributing to the state's cultural diversity.
  • 1883: The Brooklyn Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City, opens, connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn.
  • 1892: Ellis Island opens as the primary immigration station in the United States, processing millions of immigrants entering through the port of New York.
  • Early 20th century: New York City becomes a hub of cultural and artistic activity, with the Harlem Renaissance, a period of significant African-American cultural expression, taking place in the 1920s.
  • 1946: The United Nations headquarters is established in New York City.
  • Late 20th century: The construction of the World Trade Center Twin Towers is completed in 1973, becoming an iconic symbol of New York City's skyline. Unfortunately, they were destroyed in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
  • Today, New York is known for its diverse population, cultural institutions, and global financial center in New York City. The state is also home to natural attractions such as Niagara Falls, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Finger Lakes.
Audiobooks about the history of New York.