The Beaver Trade & the Purchase of Manhattan | Dutch New York

Learn about the extensive fur trade between the Dutch and Native Americans that sustained the early settlements of New Netherland in this video from Dutch New York. This video also details the Dutch acquisition of Manhattan Island by “purchase” rather than violent conquest. Through discussion questions, teaching tips, and other activities, students will learn about the relationships and interactions between Dutch settlers and Native Americans and explore the role that trade and commerce can play in expanding empires.