New York was originally called New Amsterdam.
The Origins of New Amsterdam
The settlement that would eventually become New York City was initially named New Amsterdam in 1626 by Dutch colonists. This bustling port served as the capital of New Netherland, a Dutch colonial province. Over time, the settlement grew in importance, and it was officially chartered as a city in 1653.
From Dutch to English Control: The Renaming to New York
The shift from New Amsterdam to New York occurred during a period of conflict between the Dutch and the English. In 1664, the city came under English control. Following this conquest, King Charles II granted these newly acquired lands to his brother, the Duke of York, leading to the settlement being temporarily renamed New York. The name stuck, and it was permanently established as New York in November 1674, officially marking the end of its Dutch era.
Key Milestones in New York's Naming
| Year | Event | Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1626 | Dutch settlement named | New Amsterdam |
| 1653 | Chartered as a city | New Amsterdam |
| 1664 | English control established; temporarily renamed | New York |
| 1674 | Permanently renamed | New York |
For more detailed information on the history of New York City, you can refer to its Wikipedia page.
