Historical Timeline

Timeline of Dominica

9 dated events spanning the recorded history of Dominica.

Chronology

9 events spanning the history of Dominica. BCE/CE dating.

1493
Christopher Columbus visits the island and names it Dominica (Sunday Island).
Christopher Columbus visits the island and names it Dominica (Sunday Island).
1635
France claims Dominica.
France claims Dominica, paving the way for French missionaries to colonise the island. However, resistance by the indigenous Carib Indians continues.
1660
Britain and France agree to abandon Dominica and St Vincent.
Britain and France agree to abandon Dominica and St Vincent.
1763
Britain gains possession of Dominica in accordance with the Treaty of Paris.
Britain gains possession of Dominica in accordance with the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Seven Years’ War. However, France continues to challenge this until 1805.
1834
Slavery abolished.
Slavery abolished.
1896
Britain re-establishes crown colony government over Dominica.
Britain re-establishes crown colony government over Dominica.
1951
Britain declares universal adult suffrage established in Dominica.
Britain declares universal adult suffrage established in Dominica.
1978
Dominica becomes independent with John as prime minister.
Dominica becomes independent with John as prime minister.
2007
Hurricane Dean wipes out 99% of Dominica’s banana crop.
Hurricane Dean wipes out 99% of Dominica’s banana crop, putting further pressure on the island’s struggling main industry.