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Antigua History
Antigua history, rich in intrigue, is well-known among Maritime buffs and English scholars. Prior to European exploration, however, the first residents in Antigua history were the Ciboney Indians, who inhabited the island for several thousand years before mysteriously departing. Pastoral Arawak Indians settled here before being replaced by the war-like Caribs, the last group in Antigua history to inhabit the island before it was 'discovered' by Europeans. That occurred in 1493, when Christopher Columbus spotted Antigua on his second voyage. Antigua history did not change dramatically for nearly 150 years after, though, as the Caribs resisted any efforts to colonize. Finally, in 1632, the first permanent European settlement was established by an Englishman, Sir Christopher Codrington. Antigua history from that point on took a dramatic and profound turn, seeing the island become a profitable sugar colony under the guidance of Codrington. For a large portion of Antigua history after this time the island was considered Britain's "Gateway to the Caribbean", poised along the major sailing routes that twisted and turned among the region's resource-rich colonies. A major figure in Antigua history, Lord Horatio Nelson, arrived in the late 18th century to preserve the island's commercial shipping prowess. The modern period of Antigua history has seen its ups and downs economically, with an upsurge of late being attributed to the growth of tourism to this island famous for an abundance of white beaches. The newfound strength that came along with traveler influx led to a movement for independence in the 1960s. A momentous few decades in Antigua history followed; the island achieved autonomy (along with sister island Barbuda) within the Commonwealth in 1967, and full independence in 1981. If you're interested in Antigua history we recommend that you search our luxury Antigua villas. Click here to view a selection of the best villa rentals in Antigua. Antigua General Island Info Antigua Island History Antigua Airport Information Antigua Restaurants Antigua Water Sports Antigua Golf Antigua Activities Antigua Weddings Antigua Island Tours Antigua Transportation Antigua Security and Health Antigua Shopping Antigua Telecommunications Antigua Travel Antigua Map Antigua Weather |
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