Spain’s Fascinating History in Florida: A Revelation Untold

Recently, I came across a fascinating program called Draining The Ocean, which brought to light the lesser-known history of Spain's involvement in Florida. Contrary to popular belief, it was not Columbus who first 'discovered' Florida, but the native Americans who had lived there for centuries before any European arrived. The show highlighted how Spanish settlements were once a part of American history, which profoundly shaped the region's development and culture.

Spanish Discovery and Settlement

One of the most significant early Spanish settlements in Florida was built in 1565 on the coast of St. Augustine. This fortification remains standing to this day, a testament to the enduring legacy of Spanish presence in the region. The area was initially quite inhospitable, described as a semi-tropical swamp that was deadly to humans. It was only in the early 20th century that the interior of Florida began to attract more settlers.

Florida's geopolitical landscape was far more complex than many historical accounts depict. It originally stretched from the Gulf of Mexico coast, including parts of what are now Texas and Louisiana, all the way to the early American border. The western frontier of Louisiana was under French control, leaving a vast and largely unknown territory for European explorers.

Spanish Control and Conflicts

Throughout the existence of the Spanish Empire, Florida was a strategic and contested territory, positioned between British and Spanish possessions. This often led to conflicts and tensions between the two empires. As the United States began to assert its independence, the desire to annex Florida became more pronounced. This period also saw the United States becoming stronger and more populous, reaching a population of 9,638,453 by 1820, while Spain was weakened by the Napoleonic invasions and the wars of independence in Hispanic-American nations. This made it difficult for Spain to maintain control over Florida.

The Adams-Onis Treaty of 1819: The Final Chapter

The turning point in Spanish control over Florida came with the Adams-Onis Treaty of 1819. This treaty, which aimed to resolve issues related to Florida, ended up having a broader impact on the boundaries between the United States and the Spanish possessions in North America. It established the border between the two nations and saw Florida sold to the United States for 5 million dollars. However, the primary objective of the treaty was not just the sale of Florida but to stabilize the frontier between the United States and Spain amidst ongoing conflicts.

The terms of the treaty were to be honored by both parties, but the United States, unfortunately, did not fully uphold its commitments. This led to ongoing tensions and disputes. The treaty had a profound impact on the region, as Spain's position was inherited by Mexico, which was to adhere to the terms established in the treaty. Nevertheless, the legacy of Spanish influence in Florida continued to shape the region's history and culture, long after the Spanish Empire's control had ended.