Negotiating the Surrender of New Netherland

In 1624, the Dutch West India Company founded New Amsterdam, a vital trade hub. By 1664, the English sought to seize it. Peter Styvesant, the colony's director, prepared for defense, but the merchants, fearing for their lives, devised a plan. They sent Hillegonds von Riven and Lydia de Meyer to negotiate with the English, convincing them to pursue diplomacy. Consequently, New Amsterdam surrendered peacefully, becoming New York, without bloodshed. Hillegonds and Lydia's crucial role remains largely unrecognized in history.

Who were the two women credited with saving New Amsterdam from destruction?

• Sarah Good and Tituba

• Margaret Brent and Anne Arundel

• Anne Hutchinson and Mary Dyer

• Hillegonds von Riven and Lydia de Meyer

What was the primary reason the Dutch West India Company established New Amsterdam?

• To create a religious haven

• For its valuable trade location

• To expand agricultural lands

• To establish a military base

What was Peter Stuyvesant's initial reaction to the English threat?

• He decided to surrender immediately

• He sought help from neighboring colonies

• He began to mobilize men for defense

• He fled the colony

Why were the merchants of New Amsterdam hesitant to fight the English?

• They were promised rewards by the English

• They feared losing their property and lives

• They lacked sufficient weapons

• They were loyal to the English crown

What was the outcome of the negotiations led by Hillegonds and Lydia?

• A violent battle ensued

• A peaceful surrender was achieved

• New Amsterdam was destroyed

• The English withdrew their forces