Saint Barthélémy -

All you need to know

The island of St barthelemy

Intro

Saint Barthélémy, or St Barth, is a small French island in the West Indies. It is known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. However, the history of Saint Barthélémy is rich and varied, ranging from Native American colonization to the arrival of French and Swedish settlers. In this article, we will explore the history of Saint Barthelemy and discover how this small island has evolved over the centuries.

The first inhabitants

Before the arrival of Europeans, the island was inhabited by Arawak and Carib Indians. The Arawaks were farmers and fishermen who cultivated yams, sweet potatoes and beans. The Caribs were warriors, but they also practiced agriculture and fishing. The two groups coexisted relatively peacefully until the arrival of Europeans.

French and Swedish colonization

In 1648, France claimed St Barthelemy, which became a French colony. French settlers cultivated crops of sugar cane and cotton, but the island remained relatively sparsely populated due to its lack of natural resources. In 1784, Sweden took control of the island, but this period of Swedish rule lasted only 94 years. In 1878, France regained control of the island and turned it into a fishing colony.

The modern Era

In the 20th century, the island of Saint Barthélémy became a popular tourist destination. Visitors flock to enjoy its beaches, upscale shopping and world-class restaurants. In 2007, the island became an overseas territory of France, which greatly increased tourism and investment in the island.

Conclusion

The history of Saint Barthélémy is rich and varied. From the first Native American inhabitants, to French and Swedish settlers, to the modern era of the tourist industry, this small island has seen many changes over the centuries. With its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and relaxed atmosphere, Saint Barthélémy has become a destination of choice for travelers from all over the world.