The document discusses the history and development of New York City from its origins as the Dutch colony of New Amsterdam in the 17th century. It describes how New Amsterdam grew into a racially diverse and bustling port city, though it also faced problems like riots. The document also discusses the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge in the late 19th century, political corruption under William Tweed, and New York City's growth into a massive, crowded, and changing urban center through immigration in the late 19th/early 20th century.

1. American Urbanization & New York City By Nadya Dooley 4/23/11