Kieft's War (1626–1645)

Later histories connect an earlier killing of a fur trader with the 1641 death of Claes Smits. The remembered revenge narrative should be distinguished from contemporary records of Kieft’s subsequent decisions.

The killing and the demand to surrender its perpetrator become part of the conflict. Later historians explain it through a fifteen-year revenge story; the revised account keeps that attribution visible.

The first popularly elected body in New Netherland urges Kieft to demand the killer 'once, twice, yea for a third time' in a 'friendly manner.' Kieft refuses and dissolves the council.

The famous religious dissident, living in exile in the Bronx, is killed by Siwanoy warriors as the war engulfs the entire region. ~1,500 indigenous warriors attack across New Netherland.

Dutch soldiers kill ~120 sleeping Wappinger refugees at Pavonia (Jersey City), including women and children. 40 more killed at Corlears Hook that same night. Unified Algonquian resistance follows.

Captain John Underhill's forces attack a Weckquaesgeek village. Many burned alive in their dwellings. One of the deadliest single events in the colonial Indian wars.

After two years of war costing over 1,500 indigenous lives, the Kitchawank and 68 other tribes sign peace with the Dutch. A plaque at Croton Point Park marks the site.