NYC Tour Guide Practice Test

What was the reason for selling and who sold Manhattan to the Dutch?

1. British Empire, for debt repayment

2. French Empire, for trade agreements

3. Wappinger Federation, for survival

4. Lenape Native Americans, for alliance

The correct answer is: Wappinger Federation, for survival

The reason for selling Manhattan to the Dutch was for survival by the Wappinger Federation. This option is correct because historical records indicate that the Wappinger people, who were part of the larger Lenape Native American tribe, believed that by selling Manhattan Island to the Dutch in the early 17th century, they could forge a mutually beneficial relationship with the newcomers and ensure their survival in the rapidly changing environment caused by European colonization. The other options are incorrect as they do not accurately reflect the historical context surrounding the sale of Manhattan.