Puerto Rico

Columbus Discovery

Nov 19, 1493

Christopher Cloumbus discovered Puerto Rico on his second voyage. When he arrived he met the Taínos, the native inhabitants of the island.

First Spanish Settlement

Aug 8, 1508

Juan Ponce de León established the first Spanish settlement on the island, Caparra. He later became the first governor

Small Pox Outbreak

Period: Jan 31, 1518 to Jan 31, 1519

Royal Decree of Graces 1815

Jan 31, 1850

Its main purpose was to attract europeans to the island. In doing so, weaken the independence movements and increase spanish loyalty.

Purto Rican Flag

Dec 22, 1895

This was the first time the Puerto Rican flag was used. It became a national symbol.

Charter of Autonomy

Jul 17, 1898

Puerto Rico was Granted some autonomy by Spain. They were able to elect officials an control some taxation. However, this autonomy was short lived.

United States Invade

Jul 25, 1898

American troops led by General Nelson Miles landed in Guánica, Puerto Rico. They were immediately met by Spanish resistance.

Treaty of Paris 1898

Dec 10, 1898

This treaty ended the Spanish American war and resulted in Spain giving up Cuba and giving the United States Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippeans.

Foraker Act

Apr 12, 1900

Also known as the Organic Act, this gave Puerto Ricans a limited popular government.

Jones Act

Mar 2, 1917

Signed by Wilson, this law made Puerto Rico an official territory, created its bill of rights, established its three banches of government, gave Puerto Ricans statutory citizenship, established elections every four years, and made English an official language.

Gag Law

Jun 10, 1948

This censorship law aimed to supress independence movements in Puerto Rico. It was prohibited to fly the Puerto Rican flag, sing Puerto Rican tunes, mention idependence, or hold political meeting. This was repealed nine years later after it was deemed unconstituional.