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imagine a time when states fought over islands like kids playing a game of tag. that's exactly what happened between new york and new jersey, and the stakes were high. the prize? staten island, described back then as "the most commodiousest and richest land".
the challenge
new york proposed a race to determine ownership of the islands between them. the rule was simple: any island that could be encircled in less than 24 hours would belong to new york. those that couldn't be encircled in time would go to new jersey. staten island, being the largest and most valuable, was the main target.
the strategy
new jersey thought staten island was too big to encircle in under a day, given the slow boats of the time. but new york had a secret weapon: captain christopher billopp. the captain came up with a clever plan to lash empty barrels to his ship, allowing it to catch the wind and move faster. this strategy proved to be the difference-maker, as billopp managed to encircle staten island in just over 23 hours.
the reward
billopp's victory earned him historical immortality and a place in books, articles, and on wikipedia. new york, grateful for the win, gifted billopp an estate on staten island, which still stands today as a historical museum and park. the locals, who would have been jerseyites if not for billopp, are now proud staten island yorkers.
the legacy
the story of the race to win staten island is a delightful tale of strategy, determination, and historical significance. it's a reminder of the quirky ways in which borders and territories were once determined.
further reading
for more historical insights and engaging stories, check out these articles:
- joan baez: a life in music and activism
- the rise and impact of public enemy: a hip-hop history
- exploring the wonders of nature: a guide to 50 breathtaking scenery spots
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the end
thank you for reading about the race to win staten island. we hope you enjoyed this engaging and informative article. stay tuned for more fascinating stories from the past!"
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