New Netherland

With the onset of the Industrial Revolution, New York State truly came into its own as a center for industry and economy. Businessmen like Jay Gould of the railroad industry and oil tycoon JD Rockefeller helped make New York prosperous, while many local inventors, engineers, and architects helped create new and valuable ideas. From the beauty and strength of the Brooklyn Bridge to the innovations of Corning Glass Works, New York's past and present are ripe with fascinating tales of economic growth and innovation.

New York would not be the state it is today without the many strong leaders of its past. This fascinating resource examines some of the most influential men and women in New York's early history, including Peter Minuit, Sybil Ludington, Peter Stuyvesant, Red Jacket, and George Clinton. Entertaining biographical information is woven into the narrative of New York history and is presented along with primary source documents and paintings supporting the contributions of these early luminaries.

New York played an important part in America's fight for independence. New York City even served as the first capital of the United States! Readers explore the history of New York from its discovery by Europeans and its colonization by both the Dutch and British through its role in the American Revolution and the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Important social studies curriculum topics are presented in an accessible manner, alongside full-color photographs and historical primary sources chosen to give readers a clear picture of what life was like in New York during colonial times.