The history of the Caribbean begins with the migration of several groups from the mainland Americas around 7000 years ago. These groups were almost wiped out shortly after the arrival of Europeans in 1492 transmitted Old World diseases to the region. Several of the Americas' oldest cities were founded in the Caribbean throughout the 16th Century as the Spanish Empire conquered many of the larger islands.

Other European states, notably England, France, and the Netherlands, colonised the Caribbean in the 17th Century. Despite the constant threat of piracy, these small colonies thrived into the 18th Century. By 1800, many of Europe's wealthiest colonies were located in the Caribbean, supplying luxury goods such as sugar back to the Old World.

With the abolition of slavery in the 19th century, plantations became less economically viable, and the region as whole lost importance. The 20th Century was marked by several American interventions in the Caribbean, as well the the independence of most European colonies.


Support me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=4740833
Follow me on DeviantArt: http://olliebye.deviantart.com/


Original Map:
arcgis.com


Music:
Philip Ayers On a Hunt