Manhattan is a city located in northeastern Kansas, United States. The area where Manhattan is located was originally inhabited by the Kaw, Osage, and Pawnee Native American tribes. In the mid-19th century, European-American settlers began to move into the area.

The town of Manhattan was founded in 1855 when Isaac Goodnow and other Free-Staters established the New England Emigrant Aid Company to help anti-slavery settlers move to Kansas Territory. Goodnow and his associates founded Manhattan as a center for education and culture, and it soon became the site of the Kansas State Agricultural College, which later became Kansas State University.

During the Civil War, Manhattan served as a base for Union troops, and the city was raided by Confederate guerrillas in 1862. After the war, the town continued to grow as a center for agriculture and education.

In the early 20th century, Manhattan became a center for the meatpacking industry, and the city’s economy diversified with the growth of other industries such as manufacturing and technology.

Today, Manhattan is a thriving city with a population of over 50,000. It is home to Kansas State University, which has a major impact on the local economy and culture. The city is also known for its arts and culture scene, including the Manhattan Arts Center and the Flint Hills Discovery Center.