With a population of over 8 million, New York city is the largest city in the United States. Contrary to popular belief, New York City has the lowest crime rate among major US cities. The city is at the center of international finances, politics, entertainment, and culture. It is also the home to the global headquarters of the United Nations.
In 1613 the Dutch established the city as 'New Amsterdam'. Then in 1664 the British conquered the city and renamed it to 'New York'. Later in 1788 New York became the capital of The United States, but this only lasted couple years and was replaced in 1790.
Currently the city has an amazing number of restaurants, museums, galleries, international corporations, and financial markets. New York city is one of the four world cities (along with Paris, London, and Tokyo) that controls world finance.
New York City is composed of five boroughs: The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Stanton Island. Each borough has distinct neighborhoods with a variety of characteristics and personalities. Manhattan is the business center and has the most skyscrapers. The Bronx is the birthplace of hip hop music culture and home to the New York Yankees. Brooklyn has the most people and long beachfront. Queens is the largest of the boroughs, has the most diverse population, and is home to the New York Mets. Stanton Island is the most suburban and smallest of the five boroughs.
On September 11, 2001 New York City was the target of a major terrorist attack. Nearly 3000 people were killed in the destruction of the twin towers of the World Trade Center. The city has since rebounded and is experiencing a new economic and social boom.
