Dominican Republic By vholland Jan 1, 1492 Arrival of Christopher Columbus to the island Jan 2, 1498 Bartolomé Columbus, brother of Christopher Columbus, founds the city of Santo Domingo, on the eastern shores of the Ozama River. Jan 3, 1605 Sugar refineries and cattle stock were destroyed in order to prevent smuggling. Jan 4, 1697 Spain gives the west of the island (Haití) to France via the Ryswick Treaty. At the time, it is called Saint Domingue. Jan 5, 1777 The Treaty of Aranjuez is signed, which fixed the boundaries between the Spanish and French colonies. Jan 6, 1838 The secret La Trinitaria movement is founded, led by Juan Pablo Duarte. They want to overthrow Boyer and create an independent nation. Jan 7, 1844 On November 14, Pedro Santana is elected the first Constitutional President of the country. Jan 8, 1916 Financial weakening leads to a military intervention in the country by the United States, in order to recover the international debt. Jan 10, 1962 Juan Bosch wins the first free elections in the country and takes charge on February 27, 1963.