Dominica History
look briefly at Dominica history. The Ortoroid's would later become extinct around 400 BC, and would be replaced by the Igneri (Arawak indians) in about 400 AD. The Arawaks were generally a peaceful, agricultural people, and they would enjoy their lifestyle for the next 1000 years. In 1400 AD another indigenous group from South America, called the Kalinago or the "Caribs" (as they became more commonly known), would take over the island of Dominica. They named the island "Wai'tukubuli" which means "tall is her body". They couldn't have chosen a better name for this lush paradise, with its towering mountains rising from the sea. One can only imagine what life must have been like for these early settlers. Dominica history is fascinating to true historians. They were skilled in many areas, such as:
They were also a people who had a great affinity and respect for the land and the sea. Their ingenuity and steadfastness continues to this very day! As a matter of fact, Dominica is the only island in the Carribean that has an official "Carib Territory". Dominica history is showing the pride of its people.
It was on this day that Christopher Columbus first set foot on our island. (See, I said the Dominica history was interesting.) He would go on to name this island "Dies Dominica" or (Dominica) which means "Day of our Lord" in Latin. Twelve years later in 1505, Dominica would officially appear on the world map. Colonization Like other islands in the Caribbean, Dominica was not immune to the effects of colonization. The next 300 years would prove to be the bloodiest years in the Dominica history. As the British and the French raced to colonize the Caribbean, Dominica would often end up being the staging ground for many battles and revolts. For the many years, following Columbus's visit to the island, no European power was able to conquer Dominica. The Caribs were tenacious, and refused to go down without a fight. To their credit they were able to navigate the rugged terrain, and establish strongholds in "unaccessible" parts of the island. Needless to say, when all was said and done the Carib population had been drastically reduced. Only a handful remain to this day (approximately 3000 people). Although the British were "theoretically" the first to claim possession of Dominica, the French were the first actual European settlers on the island. During this time African slaves were brought to the island, to work on various plantations and harvested everything from wood, cotton, and tobacco. The island would change hands many times over the next few years, but in the end it was the British who took final control of Dominica History. However, the French influence was strong too, and can still be seen to this day through the language (patois), customs, and the many French place-names on the island. Dominica remained a British colony until The Independence Constitution took effect on 3rd November 1978, separating Dominica from British rule.
The Land and Its People As we look back at Dominica history, we can see some characteristics that have defined this land and its people over the years. From the islands first settlers to its current inhabitants, the people of Dominica have maintained a great deal of respect for the land and its resources. It's little wonder that Dominica is called the "Nature Island of the Caribbean". Naturally, "eco-tourism" is currently on the rise on this tropical paradise. The island's rugged terrain, and delicate eco-system plays a major role in what can and cannot be developed on the island. Nevertheless, Dominica continues to attract, adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers from all over the world. Dominicans are a friendly people. You can be sure that, no matter where you come from . . . you'll always feel at home.
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