Bahamas
15th-16th centuries
Christopher Columbus lands in the Bahamas (perhaps Watling Island, now called San Salvador, or Samana Cay, or Egg Island off Eleuthera) on October 12, 1492. Disappointed in his search for gold and other riches, he sails out of the Bahamas towards neighbouring Cuba.
The Spanish remove the Indian inhabitants of Lucaya on Grand Bahama Island to work in Spain, Haiti and Cuba.
18th century
The Bahamas become a crown colony in 1718. The first royal governor cleans out the pirates and calls an Assembly. Spain rules the islands for one year in 1782, but the Treaty of Versailles (1783) returns them to the British. Cotton plantations flourish but prosperity is short-lived. The weak soil is soon depleted and a plague destroys crops. Most planters leave. Nassau becomes a free port in 1787.
20th century
During the first two decades massive emigration takes place, mainly to the United States. During Prohibition, Nassau booms as a centre for bootlegging. The city's first gambling casino opens in 1920, and an air service links Nassau to Miami nine years later. An offshore banking boom begins in the 1930s. During World War II American bases are established in the Bahamas and the Duke of Windsor becomes governor. Tourism increases steadily, especially after the Cuban revolution. The Bahamas achieve self-government and, in 1973, independence. In the 1980s the country's place at the centre of international finance declines: there are rumours of money laundering and new Caribbean banking competition to contend with.
