Henry Hudson, an English sea explorer, is best known for his explorations in the early 17th century. One of the significant lands he claimed was the area around what is now known as the Hudson River and Hudson Bay.
In 1609, while sailing under the Dutch East India Company, Hudson explored the river that would later be named after him. He claimed the surrounding land for the Dutch, which eventually led to the establishment of the Dutch colony of New Netherland. This area includes parts of present-day New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
Later, in 1610, Hudson embarked on another voyage, this time under the English flag. He discovered and claimed the Hudson Bay in Canada, which was named after him. This discovery opened up new opportunities for the English in terms of trade and colonization in North America.
Henry Hudson’s explorations and claims played a crucial role in the European colonization of North America, particularly for the Dutch and English.