Long Island: A Brief History of When It Decided to Be New York
So, you wanna know when Long Island, that stretch of land that somehow managed to be both a suburban oasis and a party central, became part of the concrete jungle known as New York? Well, buckle up, history buffs, because we're about to dive into a tale as old as time... or at least as old as 1664.
A Tale of Two Islands (Or One, Really)
Let's set the scene: it's the 17th century. The Dutch are chillin' in New Amsterdam (aka New York City), and Long Island is basically divided into two chill zones: the Dutch side and the English side. It's like a really old-school version of the Yankees vs. Mets, but with way less drama and a lot more wooden shoes.
Then, in 1664, the English decided they wanted a piece of the Dutch action. In a move that would make any reality TV producer jealous, they swooped in and took over New Amsterdam, renaming it New York. And, just for good measure, they decided to grab Long Island while they were at it.
Long Island: The Reluctant New Yorker
Now, you might be thinking, "Wait, Long Island? Part of New York City? That's like saying the Hamptons is Brooklyn!" And you'd be absolutely right. But hey, history's a funny old thing.
Over the years, Long Island has tried its best to maintain its own identity. It's got its own beaches, its own mansions, and even its own accent (which is basically a mix of Brooklyn and Boston, but with a side of "how you doin'?"). But despite its best efforts, Long Island remains inextricably linked to the Big Apple.
So, there you have it. Long Island officially became part of New York in 1664, but its heart (or at least its Hamptons) will always belong to the beach.
How to Become a Long Island Expert
- How to tell if someone is from Long Island: Listen for phrases like "chowda," "bagel with lox," and "get off my beach."
- How to survive a Long Island summer: Invest in a good beach chair, plenty of sunscreen, and a strong tolerance for traffic.
- How to appreciate Long Island's diversity: Explore the island's different towns and neighborhoods, from the bustling city life of Nassau County to the laid-back charm of the Hamptons.
- How to find the best pizza on Long Island: It's a hotly contested topic, but most locals will agree that you can't go wrong with a classic New York-style slice.
- How to enjoy Long Island's natural beauty: Take a walk on the beach, hike through one of the island's many parks, or simply enjoy the stunning views.