In the first part of our visit to New York, we reveal how the combination of money, diversity, creativity and density are the traits that make New York, New York. We explore the long history of the city and we discover that the entrepreneurial zeal that one so often associates with the city has very deep roots. We hear how the original raison d'etre for the settlement that became New York was in fact profit-making.

But the geography and topography of New York that facilitated this was also the home of indigenous Lenape populations, whose long-established network of trade routes and cultural exchange were diminished as the settlement grew into a city.

Dr Sarah Henry and Tom Wright guide us through many of the decisive moments in the history of New York from before it was settled up to the 21st Century. It’s a conversation that covers migration, enterprise, exploitation, social tension, revolt, reform, crisis and hope.

For the Eric Sanderson talk that’s mentioned in this episode, follow this link: https://www.ted.com/talks/eric_sanderson_new_york_before_the_city?language=en 

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