Wall Street

Wall Street is a street in Lower Manhattan's Financial District, running eight blocks from Broadway to South Street along the East River. The term "Wall Street" has become synonymous with the U.S. financial markets, the financial services industry, and New York’s financial interests. Originally part of New Amsterdam, it was known as Het Cingel in the 17th century and featured a city wall from 1653 to 1699. By the 18th century, it hosted a slave market and became a hub for securities trading. As the 19th century progressed, Wall Street became the center of New York’s financial industry, housing major financial institutions like the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Reserve. Its economic influence is global.