Saint Lucia, a picturesque island in the Eastern Caribbean, boasts a rich history marked by early indigenous settlements and a tumultuous colonial era. Initially inhabited by the Arawak Indians around 200 AD and later by the Carib Indians in 800 AD, the island was known as “Louanalao” and “Hewanorra,” respectively. European contact began in the 1500s, leading to a series of failed colonization attempts by the English and the French throughout the 17th century due to fierce resistance from the native Caribs. The island’s strategic importance resulted in frequent battles between European powers, with control oscillating between the French and British until it was finally ceded to Britain in 1814. Saint Lucia’s history of colonial struggle and resilience is foundational to its cultural and political development.
Chronological history of Saint Lucia
Pre-Colonial and Early Colonial Period
- 200 AD: Arawak Indians, calling the island “Louanalao” (“Island of the Iguanas”), first inhabit Saint Lucia.
- 800 AD: Carib Indians arrive, renaming the island “Hewanorra” and integrating Arawak culture.
- 1500: European discovery, though the exact date is uncertain; likely sighted by Spanish explorers.
European Colonization Attempts
- 1550s: French pirate François Le Clerc, “Jambe de Bois” (Peg-Leg), uses Pigeon Island to attack Spanish ships.
- 1605: English settlers attempt colonization; thwarted by disease and Carib resistance.
- 1639: Another failed English settlement; Caribs again repel the colonizers.
- 1650: French West India Company purchases the island from the Caribs, establishing a colony.
- 1664: Thomas Warner claims the island for England; heavy losses from disease force a retreat.
Colonial Tug-of-War
- 1667: Treaty of Breda restores Saint Lucia to France.
- 1674: France claims Saint Lucia as a crown colony, making it a dependency of Martinique.
- 1748: Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle declares Saint Lucia neutral.
- 1762: British capture Saint Lucia during the Seven Years’ War; return it to France in 1763.
- 1778-1783: British use Saint Lucia as a naval base during the American Revolutionary War; return it to France by the Peace of Versailles.
19th Century and Abolition of Slavery
- 1814: Treaty of Paris cedes Saint Lucia to Britain permanently.
- 1834: Emancipation of enslaved people in British colonies; Saint Lucia’s enslaved population gains freedom by 1838.
Path to Independence
- 1958-1962: Part of the West Indies Federation, which dissolves in 1962.
- 1967: Gains full internal self-government under the West Indies Act.
- 1979: Achieves independence from Britain on February 22; John Compton becomes the first Prime Minister.
Modern Era
- 1980s-2000s: Saint Lucia develops a diverse economy, with tourism becoming a primary industry.
- Present: The island is a prosperous member of the Commonwealth, known for its vibrant culture blending African, Carib, French, and British influences.
Saint Lucia’s journey from a contested colonial territory to an independent nation is a testament to its enduring spirit and strategic significance. Gaining independence in 1979, the island has since developed a diverse economy with tourism at its core, while retaining its unique cultural heritage influenced by African, Carib, French, and British elements. Today, Saint Lucia stands as a vibrant member of the Commonwealth, celebrated for its rich history and cultural diversity.
