Russell Shorto

Historian Russell Shorto, author of 'Taking Manhattan,' delves into how English forces took Manhattan from the Dutch in 1664 without a single shot fired. He unpacks the intricate colonial history filled with pragmatic negotiations, personal rivalries, and ideological divides. Shorto highlights the societal impact of New Amsterdam and introduces colorful anecdotes, such as the life of Catalina Trico. The conversation navigates through Richard Nichols' royal connections and the tensions that defined the transition from Dutch to English control, shaping early New York.

Russell Shorto, Director of the New Amsterdam Project and author, and Ted Johnson, Senior Advisor at New America, dive into New York City's complex legacy as it celebrates 400 years. They explore the city’s Colonial past, stressing the need to include diverse narratives in its history. The conversation shifts to America's upcoming 250th anniversary, tackling the impact of slavery and the importance of acknowledging historical injustices. Together, they call for a more nuanced understanding of America's multifaceted identity.

Russell Shorto, a historian and author known for his in-depth exploration of New York's origins, delves into the dramatic transition of Manhattan from Dutch to British control in 1664. He highlights key figures like Peter Stuyvesant and Richard Nichols, discussing Nichols' royalist background and strategic negotiations. The talk explores the complexities of Native land claims, the unique cosmopolitan nature of Dutch New Amsterdam, and the evolution of slavery during this era. Shorto's insights illuminate how these elements shaped the city's development and legacy.