New York played an important part in America''s fight for independence. New York City even served as the first capital of the United States. Readers explore the history of New York from its discovery by Europeans and its colonization by both the Dutch and British through its role in the American Revolution and the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Important social studies curriculum topics are presented in an accessible manner, alongside full-color photographs and historical primary sources chosen to give readers a clear picture of what life was like in New York during colonial times.