From Columbus to Commonwealth
Knowing Puerto Rico’s past is integral to understanding the cultural, political, and social dynamic of the island today. It is a story of three peoples: the native Indians who called it home, the Spanish invaders (who brought the African slaves), and the Americans.
The History of Puerto Rico: When the Jibaros Came to Town
During the 1800s, Puerto Rico began to prosper, thanks to a decline in military buildup and a focus on agricultural growth. This was the time of the Jíbaros, or laborers from the countryside. It was also the dawn of a new era, when Puerto Ricans would rise up and demand independence from Spain.
During the 1800s, Puerto Rico began to prosper, thanks to a decline in military buildup and a focus on agricultural growth. This was the time of the Jíbaros, or laborers from the countryside. It was also the dawn of a new era, when Puerto Ricans would rise up and demand independence from Spain.
Guardian of the Seas
From its earliest history as a Spanish colony, Puerto Rico's history has been tied to its military prowess. As a principal guardian of Spanish interests in the New World, the island established its identity in the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries.
From its earliest history as a Spanish colony, Puerto Rico's history has been tied to its military prowess. As a principal guardian of Spanish interests in the New World, the island established its identity in the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries.
From Columbus to Ponce de Leon
A brief history of Puerto Rico's discovery by Columbus and founding as a colony by Juan Ponce de Leon.
A brief history of Puerto Rico's discovery by Columbus and founding as a colony by Juan Ponce de Leon.