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 that played a crucial role in saving New Amsterdam?

What was the main reason the merchants of New Amsterdam did not want to defend the colony?

What cunning plan did the merchants concoct to avoid conflict with the English?

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

How do you think Hillegonds and Lydia would feel about their lack of recognition in history?