peter minnewit
Proper noun A historical figure: Peter Minnewit (also commonly spelled Minuit) was a Dutch colonist and the third Director of the Dutch colony of New Netherland. He is most famously known for orchestrating the purchase of the island of Manhattan from the Lenape Native Americans in 1626.
The name "Peter Minnewit" is used to refer to this specific historical individual, primarily in historical contexts. * He is a key figure in the early colonial history of New York. * Discussions about the founding of New York City often mention Peter Minnewit. * His actions are analyzed in the context of European colonization and land transactions with Indigenous peoples.
- In historical accounts:
- In biographical context:
- In discussions of legacy:
- The name can be used metonymically to represent the concept of a seemingly unequal historical exchange or the foundational act of a major city.
- Example: The deal made by Peter Minnewit became the stuff of legend.
- Peter Minuit: The most common alternate spelling of the name.
- Pieter Minuit: A Dutch-language variant of the name.
- New Netherland: The colony he administered.
- Dutch West India Company: The enterprise he represented.
- Colonial administrator
- Director of New Netherland (his official title)
While there are no direct phrasal verbs or idioms containing "Peter Minnewit," the event he is associated with is often referenced idiomatically. * "To buy Manhattan for $24": A phrase used to describe an astoundingly good deal or a vastly undervalued transaction, stemming from the modern equivalent value placed on the goods traded. This phrase is conceptually linked to Peter Minnewit's most famous act.
- Dutch colonist who bought Manhattan from the Native Americans for the equivalent of $24 (1580-1638)