Henry Hudson set sail in 1609 on behalf of the Dutch East India Company, hoping to find a shorter route to Asia through the Arctic. Instead, he arrived in present-day New York, where he encountered various indigenous groups and navigated the waters of the river that would be named after him. Upon reaching the broad estuary, Hudson and his crew explored its banks, marveling at the fertile lands and abundant fish. Hudson's documentation of the river opened up new avenues for trading and settlement, attracting both Dutch and English interests. The journey underscored the importance of the region's natural resources and its potential for economic development. Hudson's exploration provided vital information about the North American coastline and encouraged further expeditions by European powers seeking to exploit new territories.

Over the course of the following weeks, Hudson traveled further up the river, charting its course and collecting specimens of the local flora and fauna. His detailed notes and maps contributed to a growing body of knowledge that would aid future navigators and explorers. Hudson's encounters with Native American tribes alongside his discovery contributed to the recognition of the river as a land of opportunity. His expedition ultimately laid the groundwork for the eventual establishment of Dutch settlements that would flourish along the Hudson River, impacting the region's demographics and economy for generations to come.