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Historian Claims NYC Mayoral Count Inaccurate Since 1600s

12/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Historian Paul Hortenstine argues that New York City's mayoral count has been inaccurate since the 17th century.
Hortenstine asserts Matthias Nicolls served a second term in 1674, making Zohran Mamdani the 112th mayor.
The Green Book, the official city directory, does not recognize Nicolls' second term.
Local commentators discuss the oversight and its implications for the historical record, including Eric Adams.

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Story summary

Historian Paul Hortenstine argues that New York City's mayoral count has been inaccurate since the 17th century.
Hortenstine asserts Matthias Nicolls served a second term in 1674, making Zohran Mamdani the 112th mayor.
The Green Book, the official city directory, does not recognize Nicolls' second term.
Local commentators discuss the oversight and its implications for the historical record, including Eric Adams.