History of Newark, New Jersey

Map of Newark 1666-1916 compiled to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the city's founding
The landing of the Puritans in 1666, from the Settlers' Monument, Fairmount Cemetery
First Landing Party of the Founders of Newark, by Gutzon Borglum, 1916

Newark has long been the largest city in New Jersey. Founded in 1666, it greatly expanded during the Industrial Revolution, becoming the commercial and cultural hub of the region. Its population grew with various waves of migration in the mid 19th century, peaking in 1950. It suffered greatly during the era of urban decline and suburbanization in the late 20th century. Since the millennium it has benefited from interest and re-investment in America's cities, recording population growth in the 2010 and 2020 censuses.