New York State has a rich history that began with the arrival of Native American tribes, such as the Iroquois and Algonquin, long before European exploration. In 1524, Giovanni da Verrazzano became the first European to explore the area, followed by Henry Hudson in 1609. The Dutch established New Amsterdam in 1624, which later became New York when the English seized control in 1664. During the American Revolution, New York played a crucial role, hosting significant battles like the Battle of Saratoga. The state was also the site of the first women's rights convention in 1848 at Seneca Falls. Today, New York is known for its diverse culture, economy, and landmarks, including Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building.