Timeline of Cuba

Chronology

27 events spanning the history of Cuba. BCE/CE dating.

1. 1250

   Taino Indians arrive from the east.

   Taino Indians arrive from the east.

2. 1492

   The navigator Christopher Columbus claims Cuba for Spain.

   The navigator Christopher Columbus claims Cuba for Spain.

3. 1511

   Spanish colonization of the island begins under the direction of Diego Velazquez.

   Spanish colonization of the island begins under the direction of Diego Velazquez.

4. 1514

   The city of Havana is established by Pánfilo de Narváez.

   The city of Havana is established by Pánfilo de Narváez. The city is named after San Cristóbal de Habana, a local chief.

5. 1526

   Importing of slaves from Africa begins.

   Importing of slaves from Africa begins.

6. 1602

   Cuba’s population is estimated at about 20,000.

   Cuba’s population is estimated at about 20,000, of which about 13,000 live in and around Havana.

7. 1603

   In order to end smuggling activities the government sets out a decree.

   In order to end smuggling activities (mostly in Bayamo) the government decrees that the sale of tobacco to foreigners is punishable by death.

8. 1607

   Havana is officially named the capital of Cuba.

   Havana is officially named the capital of Cuba.

9. 1697

   The Treaty of Ryswick outlaws buccaneering, ending many pirate raids on the island.

   The Treaty of Ryswick outlaws buccaneering, ending many pirate raids on the island.

10. 1762

    Havana captured by a British force led by Admiral George Pocock and Lord Albemarle.

    Havana captured by a British force led by Admiral George Pocock and Lord Albemarle.