Indigenous peoples, primarily the Lenape, originally inhabited the area now known as Manhattan. The Lenape referred to the island as "Manna-hata," meaning "island of many hills." This description reflects the topographical features of Manhattan before urban development transformed its landscape. The Lenape were part of the larger Algonquian-speaking group, and their society was organized into clans and matrilineal kinship structures.
The Lenape engaged in agriculture, fishing, and hunting, establishing a rich subsistence economy. They cultivated crops known as the "Three Sisters": corn, beans, and squash, which were staples in their diet. The Lenape also utilized the area's abundant natural resources, including the Hudson River, for fishing. They built villages along the riverbanks and utilized the waterways for transportation and trade with neighboring tribes.
Before European contact, the Lenape had a complex social structure and a spiritual belief system deeply connected to the land. They held ceremonies and rituals that honored their relationship with nature. The arrival of Europeans significantly impacted their way of life. The Dutch were the first Europeans to establish trade relations with the Lenape, exchanging goods like tools and firearms for furs, which were in high demand in Europe.
In 1626, the Dutch famously purchased Manhattan from the Lenape for goods valued at about 60 Dutch guilders, often mythologized as a bargain. This transaction marked the beginning of significant land dispossession and set a precedent for future land treaties. The Lenape's population began to decline due to disease brought by Europeans, as well as violence and displacement.
The concept of Manhattan's indigenous roots is often overlooked in contemporary discussions about the city's history. However, the legacy of the Lenape persists; place names such as "Harsimus," "Weehawken," and "Hackensack" are derived from their language. The Lenape Nation of New Jersey continues to advocate for recognition and preservation of their heritage, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging indigenous history in the face of urbanization.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to recognize and celebrate the indigenous heritage of Manhattan. Events and educational programs aim to raise awareness about the Lenape's history and contributions. Efforts such as the Lenape Center in New York City are working to revitalize Lenape culture through art, language, and community engagement. These initiatives highlight the necessity of acknowledging the past while promoting a more inclusive narrative of the city's history.