In the United States, states that start with ‘New’ are generally named by European explorers and colonists. This naming was intended to remind them of places in their homelands. For instance, New York was previously called New Amsterdam, but it was renamed to honor the Duke of York from England after the English took it from the Dutch in 1664. This symbolizes both a new beginning and an effort to carry a piece of the old world into the new world.
The Hope and Future Vision Behind ‘New’ Names
The use of the word ‘New’ also signifies the beginning of a new future, hope, and opportunities. For new settlers, this represents the chance to establish a completely new life. New Jersey was named after the island of Jersey in England by Sir George Carteret in the 17th century to honor the island. Similarly, New Mexico was named ‘Nuevo México’ by the Spanish, inspired by settlements in the Valley of Mexico.
The Dutch Origins of New Zealand and Other ‘New’ Named Places
Dutch explorers named the new regions they discovered after Zeeland, a city in Holland, calling it New Zealand. These examples show how the word ‘New’ combined the desire to start a new life in newly discovered lands and to carry on the memory of the homeland. This naming tradition reflects the efforts of immigrants to settle in new lands and develop a sense of belonging throughout history.
Reflections of European Names in the New World
In the United States, states with ‘New’ in their names are named after places brought from the old world, both preserving historical ties and symbolizing a new beginning.
The Interesting Name Change of New York: From New Amsterdam to New York
For example, New York‘s previous name was New Amsterdam, but it was changed to ‘New York’ in honor of the Duke of York from England after the English took it from the Dutch in 1664. This symbolizes both a new beginning and an effort to carry a piece of the old world into the new world.
Source: World Population Review
