Name:

Peter Minuit

Birth:

c. 1580

Death:

June 1638 - it is believed he died at sea during a hurricane

Nationality:

Peter Minuit was born in what is now Germany. His family fled to the Netherlands to escape the Spanish Army. Peter Minuit later worked for the Dutch West India Company.

Historical Significance:

Peter Minuit is most known for legitimizing the claim of Dutch settlers on the area known today as Manhattan Island.

Peter Minuit reportedly bought the land from the local indians for 60 guilders or $24.