Diversity echoes through the streets of New York City, and this pattern came into manifestation centuries ago as immigrants from various areas of the world found refuge and opportunity in this safe haven. It’s quite interesting to note the progressive trend towards greater freedoms and economic stability as the years passed on. Beginning from the 1600s with the Dutch colonization of New Amsterdam and other cities, diversity was enhanced as commercial prosperity depended on toleration. Although there were certain individuals such as Peter Stuyvesant who tried delaying this, little by little, tolerance became more evident. New York City became a refuge for religious outcasts and those who sought economic betterment. Even though there were many differences in culture, outlooks, and practices, the various immigrants shared many commonalities: the crossing, the landing, the tenement and boardinghouse, and poverty. This ironically unified otherwise starkly contrasting worlds.