Detail of Novi Belgii in America Septentrionali
Matthew Seutter, engraver
Germany, 1730-1740
Hand colored engraving

Images of stockaded villages built by the Hudson River's Mahikan tribe and exotic animals represent European preoccupation with Native Americans and the fur trade. The territories controlled by the Sint Sinks, Wappingers, Minnessinck, and other groups are indicated on the map as well.

These people traded in ideas as well as goods. Native Americans shared information about topography, the growing season, viable crops, and medicinal plants with Europeans.