Which settlement served as the capital of New Netherland and later became known as Manhattan?

The settlement that served as the capital of New Netherland and later became known as Manhattan is New Amsterdam. Established by the Dutch in the early 17th century, New Amsterdam was strategically located at the southern tip of Manhattan Island, where it thrived as a vital trading hub and port. The Dutch West India Company founded it to promote trade and expand the Dutch presence in the Americas.

When the British seized control of New Netherland in 1664, they renamed New Amsterdam to New York in honor of the Duke of York. This transition marked a significant moment in the history of the city, as it evolved from a small colonial outpost into one of the largest and most influential cities in the world. Understanding this transformation highlights the importance of New Amsterdam in American history and its lasting legacy as Manhattan.

The other options, such as Williamsburg, Philadelphia, and Detroit, do not share this direct historical connection to New Netherland and its evolution into the modern-day New York City. Each of these locations has its own unique historical significance, but none served as the capital of New Netherland or had the same foundational role in the development of Manhattan.