Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – New York is known as the world's business and economic center. However, behind this glory there is an interesting story about the 'exchange' of territory between Manhattan (owned by the Dutch) and Maluku (owned by the British).
What's the story?
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On February 2, 1653, the Dutch founded the city of Nieuw Amsterdam as a sign of power in America. Unfortunately, the Dutch could not calmly control this small town.
The British, who came first in power, continued to harass him. The British believe that New Amsterdam as a port city will be more advanced in the future. As a result, several fierce battles occurred. Until finally leading the two countries to an important agreement called the Treaty of Breda on July 31, 1667.
The essence of the agreement is an exchange of territories. Run Island in Maluku, which was controlled by the British, had to be handed over to the Dutch. Meanwhile, the Netherlands had to hand over Nieuw Amsterdam to England.
The strong reason the Dutch were willing to give up an important city in America for an island in Maluku was of course related to spices. At that time, Run Island was the only island that grew nutmeg trees even though it only covered an area of 330 hectares or the equivalent of 4 times the size of Monas.
The Dutch thought that by controlling Run Island, abundant profits could be obtained. Because, at that time, demand for spices in Europe was very high. Moving on from here, the Dutch agreed to the contents of the agreement. Run Island was then owned by the Dutch. Meanwhile, Nieuw Amsterdam was acquired by England.
The different fates of Run Island and Nieuw Amsterdam
As time went by, New Amsterdam changed its name to New York and grew rapidly. Trade flows and money turnover occur there in large quantities. This then becomes an attraction for people to live and do activities in New York. This large number of people then became the driving force of New York's economy.
According to Edward L. Glaeser in “Urban Colossus: Why Is New York America's Largest City?” (2005), the speed with which the economy moved made New York the center of the global trade network since the 17th century. Moreover, after the Wall Street area was established as a place for investment with the presence of the New York Stock and Exchange Board (NYSE) in 1817.
The existence of the new stock exchange then added to the attractiveness of New York. Until now, New York is an important city in the world in the business and economic sectors. Unfortunately, New York's success did not occur at Pulau Run. After being acquired by the Dutch, Run Island's prestige faded.
According to Des Alwi in History of Maluku (2005), when the Dutch took over, Run Island's nutmeg trees were no longer productive when the Dutch arrived. Apparently England had moved nutmeg plants to several of its colonies. As a result, the Dutch had to accept their fate
After hundreds of years later, the fate of the Netherlands remains the same. Until Indonesia became independent, Run Island would no longer be heard. This is different from New York which is increasingly famous.
It's just that, nowadays, Run Island's charm is starting to increase after becoming one of the popular tourist destinations in Eastern Indonesia.
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