Timeline of Anguilla

Chronology

7 events spanning the history of Anguilla. BCE/CE dating.

1. 1493

   Anguilla was first spotted by Christopher Columbus in 1493.

   Anguilla, the smallest Island in the Leeward Island, was first spotted by Christopher Columbus in 1493 . He gave the Island her name “Anguilla” because of its shape resemblance to an eel, Anguilla means “eel” in Spanish.

2. 1650

   Anguilla became a British colony.

   Anguilla became a British colony.

3. 1656

   Amerindian attack English settlement on Anguilla.

   Amerindian attack English settlement on Anguilla; killed men, captured women and children.

4. 1666

   French attack Anguilla.

   French attack Anguilla.

5. 1688

   French and Irish attack Anguilla, colonists flee to Antigua.

   French and Irish attack Anguilla, colonists flee to Antigua.

6. 1825

   Against the wishes of the islanders, Anguilla became incorporated with St Kitts and Nevis.

   Against the wishes of the islanders, Anguilla became incorporated with St Kitts and Nevis.

7. 1967

   Locals burned down Government House and declared their independence.

   In Anguilla locals burned down Government House and declared their independence from St. Kitts & Nevis. Britain sent 300 troops followed by police to quell the rebellion.