Peter Stuyvesant

Date of Birth: Around 1610

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: February 1672

Biography

Peter Stuyvesant, born around 1610 in Peperga, Friesland, Netherlands, was a significant figure in the history of New Amsterdam, which later became New York City. He served as the last Dutch Director-General of the colony of New Netherland from 1647 until it was ceded to the English in 1664. Stuyvesant is often remembered for his strong leadership and efforts to fortify the settlement against external threats. His tenure was marked by various challenges, including conflicts with Native American tribes, Swedish settlers, and internal dissent among the colonists. Despite these difficulties, he worked tirelessly to improve the colony’s infrastructure, economy, and defenses. After the English took control of New Netherland, Stuyvesant retired to his farm, the Bouwerij, which is now part of modern-day Manhattan. He passed away in 1672, leaving behind a legacy as a pivotal figure in the early history of what would become New York City.

5 Interesting Facts about Peter Stuyvesant

1. Peter Stuyvesant lost his right leg in a military action against the Spanish in the Caribbean and thereafter wore a wooden prosthetic leg decorated with silver nails.

2. He played a crucial role in the establishment of the New Amsterdam’s first municipal government.

3. Stuyvesant was instrumental in the construction of the protective wall on Wall Street, which was initially built to defend the colony from potential invasions.

4. After the English takeover, Stuyvesant negotiated favorable terms for the Dutch settlers, allowing them to retain their property and continue their lives under English rule.

5. His farm, the Bouwerij, is the origin of the name for the Bowery, a famous street and neighborhood in Manhattan.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Peter Stuyvesant

1. “We derive our authority from God and the Company, not from a few ignorant subjects.”

2. “I shall govern you as a father his children.”

3. “I would rather be governed by a lion than by one of my own countrymen.”

4. “The welfare of the community shall be my primary concern.”

5. “Our defense must therefore be made of the utmost importance.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Exact figures of net worth are not available from historical records, but as a prominent colonial governor, Peter Stuyvesant possessed considerable land and wealth, particularly his extensive farm in Manhattan.