Country | United States |
Population | 1694250 |
Area | 33.58 sq mi (87.0 km2) |
Time Zone | UTC−05:00 (EST) |
Coordinates | 40.78343, -73.96625 |
Highest elevation | 265 ft (81 m) |
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City Description
Manhattan, the heart of New York City, is a bustling urban core known for its density and cultural significance. Covering just 22.66 square miles (58.69 km²), it is the smallest of NYC’s five boroughs but holds a population of 1,694,250 as of the 2020 census, making it one of the most densely populated areas globally with 72,918 residents per square mile (28,154/km²). This iconic borough is coextensive with New York County, the smallest county in the U.S. by area.
Manhattan’s history dates back to the early 17th century when it was part of Lenape territory. Dutch colonists established a trading post named New Amsterdam in 1624. The English took control in 1664, renaming it New York. The borough played a pivotal role as the U.S. capital from 1785 to 1790. Manhattan became an official borough in 1898 during the consolidation of New York City.
Geographically, Manhattan is almost entirely on Manhattan Island, bounded by the Hudson, East, and Harlem rivers. It includes several small islands such as Roosevelt Island, U Thant Island, and Randalls and Wards Islands. Marble Hill, once part of Manhattan Island, is now located on the mainland due to a river diversion.
Manhattan is divided into three major sections: Lower Manhattan, Midtown, and Upper Manhattan. Lower Manhattan is home to Wall Street, making it the financial powerhouse of the world. Midtown hosts Times Square, the heart of the theater district and a major commercial center. Upper Manhattan includes residential areas and significant cultural landmarks like Harlem.
The borough’s landmarks are globally recognized. The Statue of Liberty, located in New York Harbor, symbolizes freedom and democracy. The Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and One World Trade Center define its iconic skyline. Central Park, spanning 843 acres, offers a green oasis amidst the urban sprawl. Times Square, known for its bright lights and bustling atmosphere, is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions.
Manhattan is also a hub for education and culture. It houses prestigious institutions like Columbia University and New York University. The headquarters of the United Nations is located here, emphasizing its global importance. The Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village is a historic site for LGBT rights, recognized as the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement.
Economically, Manhattan is unparalleled. Home to the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, it is the world’s leading financial center. Its property market boasts the highest prices per square foot in the U.S. The borough is also a media and entertainment powerhouse, hosting multinational conglomerates and media giants.
Manhattan’s infrastructure supports its vibrant lifestyle. Penn Station is the busiest transportation hub in the Western Hemisphere. The borough is interconnected by numerous bridges and tunnels, facilitating seamless movement. It is also a sports hub, home to the New York Knicks (NBA) and New York Rangers (NHL).
Despite its small size, Manhattan’s influence is immense. From its historical roots to its modern-day significance, it remains a central figure in the cultural, economic, and social landscape of the world. Whether it’s the hustle of Wall Street, the allure of Broadway, or the serenity of Central Park, Manhattan epitomizes the dynamic spirit of New York City.
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