Legend has it that the Native residents of Manhattan sold the island to the Dutch for a handful of beads and the equivalent of $24 in cash.
The Legendary Transaction
The sale of Manhattan Island is one of history's most renowned, yet often simplified, transactions. In 1626, the island's indigenous inhabitants, often referred to as the Lenape people, reputedly exchanged the land with Dutch representatives. This iconic deal involved a small quantity of trade goods, the most famous being glass beads and other trinkets, alongside a cash equivalent that, when converted to modern currency, is estimated at $24.
This transaction became a foundational story in the history of New York City, symbolizing an incredible bargain for the Dutch and a significant moment in the European colonization of North America.
Details of the Exchange
The exact nature and valuation of the exchange are often subjects of historical discussion, but the widely accepted legendary figures are:
| Item Exchanged | Description
