ABSTRACT

The state of New York is virtually a nation unto itself. Long one of the most populous states and home of the country’s most dynamic city, New York is geographically strategic, economically prominent, socially diverse, culturally innovative, and politically influential. These characteristics have made New York distinctive in our nation’s history.

In New York State: Peoples, Places, and Priorities, Joanne Reitano brings the history of this great state alive for readers. Clear and accessible, the book features:

  • Primary documents and illustrations in each chapter, encouraging engagement with historical sources and issues
  • Timelines for every chapter, along with lists of recommended reading and websites
  • Themes of labor, liberty, lifestyles, land, and leadership running throughout the text
  • Coverage from the colonial period up through the present day, including the Great Recession and Andrew Cuomo’s governorship

Highly readable and up-to-date, New York State: Peoples, Places, and Priorities is a vital resource for anyone studying, teaching, or just interested in the history of the Empire State.

chapter 1|7 pages

Introducing New York State

chapter 2|27 pages

Borderlands: Pre-History to the 1690s

chapter 3|31 pages

From Colony to State: 1690–1790

chapter 4|31 pages

The Empire State: 1790–1830

chapter 5|32 pages

The Maturing State: 1830–65

chapter 6|33 pages

The Booming State: 1865–1900

chapter 7|30 pages

The Progressive State: 1900–28

chapter 8|31 pages

The Activist State: 1929–54

chapter 9|30 pages

The Stressed State: 1954–75

chapter 10|36 pages

The Resilient State: 1975–2014