New York City was discovered by Europeans in 1609 and was originally a Dutch colony called New Amsterdam until being captured by the British in 1664. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, New York saw large waves of immigration and became a center of industry and commerce. In modern times, New York has grown to be one of the most diverse and culturally influential cities in the world, with many iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Brooklyn Bridge.