The history of Seychelles is a fascinating tale of discovery, colonization, and political evolution. Located in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles archipelago was first sighted by Arab sailors in the 7th century and later mapped by the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1502. The islands remained largely uninhabited until the French took possession in the mid-18th century, naming them after Viscount Jean Moreau de Séchelles. Subsequent settlement by the French included a mix of European settlers, Africans, and Indians. The British took control in the early 19th century, marking the start of over a century of British colonial rule. The journey towards independence began in earnest in the mid-20th century, culminating in full independence in 1976. Post-independence, Seychelles experienced significant political changes, including a coup in 1977 and the establishment of a multi-party democracy in the 1990s.
Chronological history of Seychelles
- Early Sightings and Arab Influence:
- 7th century: Possible first sighting by Arab sailors.
- 1502: Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama maps the islands as “Tres Irmãos”.
- European Exploration:
- 1609: British East India Company makes the first recorded landing but does not settle.
- French Colonization:
- 1742: French navigator Lazare Picault explores the islands.
- 1756: France formally claims the islands, naming them after Viscount Jean Moreau de Séchelles.
- 1770: First French settlement on Ste Anne Island, including settlers and slaves from Africa and India.
- British Rule:
- 1794: British forces first take control of the islands.
- 1811: Seychelles becomes a permanent British colony following the fall of Mauritius.
- 1814: Formal cession of Seychelles to Britain by the Treaty of Paris.
- 19th Century Developments:
- 1830s: Abolition of slavery impacts plantation economy, shifting focus to crops like coconuts, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- 1903: Seychelles becomes a separate British crown colony, previously administered as part of Mauritius.
- Path to Independence:
- 1948: Introduction of a Legislative Council with elected members.
- 1964: Formation of the Seychelles People’s United Party (SPUP) advocating for independence.
- 1970: New constitution with universal suffrage and an elected governing council.
- 1975: Seychelles gains self-government.
- June 29, 1976: Seychelles achieves independence with James Mancham as the first president.
- Post-Independence and Political Changes:
- 1977: Coup d’état by France-Albert René, establishing a one-party socialist state.
- 1991: Reintroduction of multi-party politics under international pressure.
- 1993: New constitution established, formally allowing multi-party democracy.
- 21st Century:
- 2004: James Michel becomes president, leading until 2016.
- 2016: Danny Faure takes over as president following Michel’s resignation.
- 2020: Wavel Ramkalawan elected president, marking a significant shift in the political landscape.
Seychelles’ history is marked by a series of transformative events from its early discovery to its contemporary political landscape. Initially uninhabited, the islands saw European exploration and colonization by both the French and the British, each leaving an indelible mark on the culture and society. The abolition of slavery and the subsequent economic shifts set the stage for political movements in the 20th century. Achieving independence in 1976 was a significant milestone, followed by a period of political upheaval and eventual stabilization into a multi-party democracy. Today, Seychelles stands as a testament to its resilient and diverse heritage, navigating through its complex historical legacy to forge a unified national identity.
