New York's history began with the arrival of the Lenape people, who inhabited the region long before European exploration. In 1624, the Dutch established a settlement called New Amsterdam on the southern tip of Manhattan, which later became a British colony in 1664. The city grew rapidly, becoming a major trading hub. During the American Revolution, New York played a crucial role, serving as a battleground and later as the first capital of the United States in 1789. The 19th century saw significant immigration, transforming the city into a melting pot of cultures and leading to its status as a global metropolis.