This is the debut of the New Jersey History and Heritage Spotlight, a new Insider NJ publication dedicated to New Jerseyans of all political affiliations and backgrounds. At a time when our country, but also our state, is intensely polarized, it is the opinion of this writer that one can easily become dismayed, wondering at the strength of the fabric of our society. With a 24-hour news cycle, and a media apparatus which is compelled to hold the attention of viewers and readers in order to be profitable, sometimes things can just seem bleak. And some things well and truly are bleak, and we forget about the countless non-newsworthy acts of kindness and constructive endeavors that hold the aforementioned fabric of our society together despite it all. The proliferation of social media has led to the general democratization of media content, and as a result, the saturation of “information” (and, unfortunately, both malicious and unintended misinformation) is all but inescapable. With the reality an increasingly anxious, smartphone-addicted population finds itself in, it becomes more and more incumbent on individuals to be able to discern fact from fiction, truth from myth—or its snickering cousin: propaganda. Responsible and ethical journalists are and ought to be the stewards of the truth—“just the facts”—but with countless, often conflicting voices bombarding people through their screens, credibility often comes into question with doubts eroding what was once unquestionably understood as legitimate and reliable…
Download Insider NJ’s New Jersey History and Heritage Spotlight 2024 Publication or view it below:
(Visited 101 times, 101 visits today)
New Jersey, often referred to as the Garden State, has a rich history and heritage that dates back centuries. From its early Native American inhabitants to its role in the American Revolution and industrial revolution, New Jersey has played a significant role in shaping the history of the United States.
One of the first inhabitants of New Jersey were the Lenape Native Americans, who lived in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers. The Lenape were skilled hunters and farmers, and their influence can still be seen in the names of many towns and rivers in the state.
In the 17th century, Dutch and Swedish settlers established the first European settlements in New Jersey. The Dutch founded Bergen, now known as Jersey City, while the Swedes established settlements along the Delaware River. In 1664, the English took control of the region and established the colony of New Jersey.
During the American Revolution, New Jersey played a crucial role in the fight for independence. The state was the site of several key battles, including the Battle of Trenton and the Battle of Princeton, where George Washington and his troops scored important victories against the British. New Jersey also served as a strategic location for Washington’s army during the harsh winter at Valley Forge.
In the 19th century, New Jersey became known as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution” due to its central location between New York City and Philadelphia. The state also played a significant role in the industrial revolution, with cities like Paterson becoming major centers for manufacturing and innovation.
Today, New Jersey is known for its diverse population, vibrant cultural scene, and strong sense of community. The state is home to a number of historic sites and museums that showcase its rich history, including Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and the Thomas Edison National Historical Park.
As we look towards the future, it is important to remember and celebrate New Jersey’s history and heritage. By preserving and honoring the past, we can ensure that future generations will continue to appreciate and learn from the contributions of those who came before us.