New York

Definition

One of the 13 original colonies, New York was named after the Duke of York when English took control from Dutch in 1664. It played a significant role in early American history, particularly during the Revolutionary War.

Related terms

Dutch West India Company: A chartered company (meaning it was granted trading rights by government) of Dutch merchants. This group originally controlled New York when it was still known as "New Amsterdam."

American Revolution: The conflict between Great Britain and thirteen North American colonies, which had declared themselves the independent United States of America. Key battles were fought in New York state.

Federalist Papers: A series of essays written to convince people to ratify the Constitution. Many were published in New York newspapers.