Florida Emma

Juan Ponce de Leon claimed it for Spain

Apr 8, 1513

Spanish explorer, Juan Ponce de Leon landed near (present day) St. Augustine, named it La Florida, and claimed it for Spain

The first African slaves were brought to St. Augustine.

Jul 12, 1581

The first African slaves were brought to St. Augustine.

Start of the First Seminole War.

Jul 1, 1814

Andrew Jackson invades Florida in pursuit of Seminole Indians. Start of the First Seminole War.

Start of construction of railroad to Key West

Aug 9, 1902

Start of construction of Henry Flagler's railroad to Key West; opens in 1912.

Mediterranean Citrus fruit fly discovered

Dec 8, 1929

Mediterranean Citrus fruit fly discovered; results in massive loss of citrus crops.

Apollo 11 launched

Jul 16, 1969

Apollo 11 launched, carried first men to moon

jeb Bush becomes first governor to be re-elected.

Nov 14, 2002

Jeb Bush becomes first Republican governor to be re-elected.