Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A historical figure: Peter Stuyvesant was the final Dutch Director-General of the colony of New Netherland, which included areas of present-day New York and New Jersey. He is known for his authoritarian rule and for surrendering the colony to the English in 1664.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Peter Stuyvesant governed New Amsterdam from 1647 until 1664.
  • The surrender of New Netherland by Peter Stuyvesant marked the end of Dutch control in the region.

Advanced Usage

• Historical reference: The name is used to refer to the period of late Dutch colonial rule in North America.
  • The policies of Peter Stuyvesant were often controversial.
• Eponymous references: His name is attached to various places and institutions, primarily in New York City.
  • Stuyvesant Town is a large residential development in Manhattan.

Variants and Related Words

• Stuyvesant (noun): Often used alone as a shortened reference to the historical figure or to places named after him.
  • He is a descendant of the Stuyvesant family.

Synonyms

• Director-General of New Netherland: His official title.
• The Last Dutch Governor: A descriptive synonym referencing his historical role.

Related Phrases

• Stuyvesant's Peg Leg: A phrase referencing his artificial leg, lost in a military battle prior to his governorship, which became a notable part of his public image.
  • Peter Stuyvesant was often depicted with his famous peg leg.

Related Idioms

Noun

1. the last Dutch colonial administrator of New Netherland; in 1664 he was forced to surrender the colony to England (1592-1672)