The 'Century of New York' That Most Have Never Read

📍 New York · 👁 6189 reads · ❤️ 24 likes

Since its founding in 1776, in less than 250 years, American society has weathered countless storms. New York, as the busiest city in the United States, has witnessed and recorded every significant event in the development of America.

Let's step into these New York attractions to glimpse the social changes beneath the glittering lights and the profound marks of history.

As one of America's most beloved and controversial founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton led a brilliant and dramatically eventful life. Born an orphan in Nevis, he crossed the ocean as a teenager to make his own way, eventually becoming the most important interpreter and promoter of the U.S. Constitution, as well as the founder of the American financial system, the Federalist Party, the Coast Guard, and the New York Post.

The in-depth Hamilton tour allows you, guided by a professional, to stroll through New York's oldest neighborhoods, following in Hamilton's footsteps and learning about his legendary life. As one of the drafters of the U.S. Constitution, Hamilton's beliefs and spirit are deeply embedded in America's legal system. Through the charisma of the founding fathers, you can appreciate the nation's most essential founding principles.

In 1865, President Lincoln officially declared all slaves on American territory free, ending the more than century-long institution of slavery in the United States. Yet the legacy of the slave era did not disappear; the deep-rooted racial issues remain a sharp and contentious topic in American society to this day.

On the Underground Railroad walking tour of the slave era, you'll learn about the pain and suffering inflicted by slavery and witness the efforts and struggles people made for freedom. Every step of social progress has been achieved through the long-term struggle of countless individuals who risked their lives and property, driven by passion and conviction.

The history of social change in New York and even the entire United States seems frozen within this museum. It collects and displays over 400 years of historical and cultural treasures from the colonial period to the present. Through photographs, paintings, and literary works, the New York Historical Society offers the public the most comprehensive view of America's development.

The New York Historical Society houses over 1.6 million works, including sculptures by Daniel Chester French, drawings, and various historical artifacts. Interestingly, the museum also holds over 550 board games, some dating back to the 19th century, showcasing the authentic folk society of past generations in America.

Built in 1875, the Statue of Liberty is, for many, a symbol of the United States and synonymous with New York. Her image is derived from the Roman goddess Libertas, holding a torch and a tablet inscribed with the date of independence: July 4, 1776. The seven spikes on her crown represent the oceans and the seven continents, while her raised foot symbolizes the breaking of the shackles of oppression and slavery by American citizens.

Ellis Island was originally one of the main entry points into the United States, and more than one-third of Americans can trace their ancestry to those who arrived through Ellis Island. Thus, Ellis Island is, in a sense, a symbol of American immigration. After the island's immigration center closed in 1924, plans for Ellis Island stalled. It wasn't until 1980 that the design of the Immigration Museum could proceed, ultimately becoming what we see today.

Another major event that left a scar on the hearts of Americans is the 9/11 attacks in 2001. 9/11 not only caused deep, unhealable wounds for the victims and their families but also completely changed the world's attitude and approach toward terrorism.

When the 9/11 attacks occurred, brave firefighters, police officers, and volunteers rushed to the scene to carry out rescue efforts. In this museum that holds the memories of that trauma, you will hear firsthand accounts from these heroes, survivors, and the families of the victims. Besides the 9/11 exhibition hall, the museum also features a Story Gallery and a Service Seed Garden, educating people on how to contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive community.

The world shaped by history is precisely the present we live in. While remembering the past, we must not forget that every action today is determining a future that could perhaps be foreseen.

Go City Travels joins you in opening this dusty storybook of New York, listening to its narration and sighs over history.

Travel Directory:

1. In-depth Hamilton Tour (Original price ¥280, free with New York Pass)

2. Underground Railroad Walking Tour of the Slave Era (Original price ¥245, free with New York Pass)

3. New York Historical Society (Original price ¥147, free with New York Pass)

4. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum (Original price ¥129, free with New York Pass)

5. 9/11 Memorial & Museum (Original price ¥140, free with New York Pass)