NEW JERSEY—Before European settlers arrived, the land we now call New Jersey was inhabited by the Indigenous people known as the Lenape, or more accurately, the Lenni Lenape. Their territory, which they called "Lenapehoking," extended far beyond the current state boundaries, encompassing parts of present-day New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
NEW JERSEY—Before European settlers arrived, the land we now call New Jersey was inhabited by the Indigenous people known as the Lenape, or more accurately, the Lenni Lenape. Their territory, which they called "Lenapehoking," extended far beyond the current state boundaries, encompassing parts of present-day New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. New Jersey's Indigenous Past: The Land of the Lenape
"Lenapehoking" translates to "the land of the Lenape" or "our land." The Lenape people identified themselves as the "original people" or the "true people," emphasizing their deep connection to the land and their belief in their role as stewards.
A Diverse and Complex Society
The Lenape were not a single monolithic tribe but a confederation of numerous smaller groups or clans, each with a distinct identity and territory within Lenapehoking. They were skilled hunters, gatherers, and farmers who adapted to the region's diverse ecosystems.
European Contact and the Name "New Jersey"
The arrival of European explorers in the 17th century marked a turning point in the history of Lenapehoking. The Dutch, who established the colony of New Netherland in 1624, were the first Europeans to encounter the Lenape. They referred to the region as "Scheyichbi," meaning "land along the long river," about the Delaware River.
In 1664, the English seized control of New Netherland and renamed it the Province of New Jersey in honor of the Isle of Jersey, the birthplace of Sir George Carteret, one of the colony's proprietors. This marked the beginning of the gradual displacement of the Lenape people from their ancestral lands.
Remembering the Lenape Legacy
While the name "New Jersey" has become synonymous with the state's identity, it's crucial to acknowledge the rich and complex history that preceded it. The Lenape people and their ancestral homeland, Lenapehoking, represent a vital part of the state's cultural heritage.
Today, efforts are underway to recognize and revitalize the Lenape language and culture. New Jersey officially recognizes three Lenape tribes: the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nation, the Powhatan Renape Nation, and the Ramapough Lenape Nation. These tribes continue to preserve their traditions and educate the public about their history and contributions to the region.
By acknowledging and celebrating the Lenape legacy, we honor the original inhabitants of the land and their deep connection to the natural world. It's a reminder that New Jersey's history extends far beyond European colonization and that the Lenape people's presence continues to shape the state's identity profoundly.
