The island 'Borinquen' was populated by the Taino Indians until the early 1500's. Carib Indians raided the more peaceful Taino and established a few settlements. Columbus discovered the island on his second voyage in 1493 and named it San Juan. No attempt at settlement was made until Juan Ponce de Leon was given a charter by the King of Spain to colonize the island of San Juan (1508). The first capital city soon moved from its' origins in Caparra to what is now Old San Juan due to the mosquito infestations from the surrounding swamps. The capital city became known as San Juan as the name of the island changed to Puerto Rico (Rich Port). The Spanish government built a series of fortifications, including El Morro and San Cristobal, which still stand guard over the entrance to the harbor. Old San Juan is the second oldest Spanish colonial city in the New World and an excellent example of Spanish colonial architecture; most of which, has been beautifully restored. The lovely blue cobblestones paving the streets were brought as ballast in the ships. The cities of Ponce and Mayaguez were established in the late 1700's. As settlement of Puerto Rico progressed, the native Indians tried to defend their island but were overpowered by the Spanish' Conquistadores'. The Indians not killed in battle were enslaved, most died off from disease and maltreatment. Many of the Indian women survived and eventually populated the interior of Puerto Rico along with the Spanish sailors who had brought no women with them. For several hundred years Puerto Rico was mainly a small farm economy. In the early 1800's the King of Spain granted a 'Cedula de Gracia' to increase the European population of Puerto Rico by awarding land grants to immigrants from South American colonies, Spain and other European countries. Thus began the century of change from small farms to large coffee plantations, then sugar production came into supremacy. African slaves were imported for the larger plantations. Slavery was abolished in 1873. What is now Old San Juan is the second oldest European city in the new world. Many of the names of the towns and municipalities are derived from the Taino names of the Indian Chiefs who ruled in that area. Caguas, Orocovis, Morovis and Guajataca are all Taino names. During the 'Spanish-American War' US troops invaded Puerto Rico at Guanica, July 25, 1898. No Puerto Ricans were killed; however, 50 Spanish and 50 US troops died in subsequent battles. The war ended before any heavy fighting began in Puerto Rico. The local populace had already risen in arms against the Spanish in 1868 and, in general, did not oppose the American soldiers, although the government in San Juan had declared loyalty to Spain. At the termination of the 'Spanish-American War' , the US demanded Puerto Rico as 'war payment' from Spain in the 'Treaty of Paris'. In 1917 all Puerto Ricans were granted US citizenship. Munoz Marin was the first elected governor (1948) and Puerto Rico developed its' own constitution under 'Commonwealth' status. At present the independence party garners only 5% of the vote, the statehood and commonwealth parties divide the rest. Puerto Rican residents do not pay federal income tax nor vote in presidential elections but do pay social security, receive federal welfare and serve in the armed forces. Puerto Rico's economy is presently based on the many factories established through tax incentives. Many of these are no longer in effect. Tourism accounts for only 7% of the economy. 90% of all food is imported to the island. The island is quite heavily populated, 3.8 million people or more than a thousand per square mile. The struggle between maintaining and increasing the forests and adding needed housing is one of great conflict. Only 34% of the island is forested and 82% of those forests are in private hands, subject to the whim of the owners. Puerto Rico has a terrific potential as an Eco-tourist destination but it remains to be seen if this valuable resource will be recognized in time to protect it. 75% of the mangrove forest has already been destroyed. The local legislature remains indifferent to requests for protection and expansion of the forests. Only 6% of the island is presently protected forest. The Caribbean National Forest, known as 'El Yunque Rain Forest' is the most visited Eco-tourist attraction. There are 5 other mountain forest reserves and over 20 lowland reserves. The unique karst region of the North West is one of few such places in the world. There are 189 listed caves and the worlds third largest underground river flows through the Camuy Cave System. The small islands and cays around Puerto Rico host many fabulous beaches, excellent snorkeling and water sports such as sailing and kayaking. Several dozen pleasant guest houses around the island cater to the Eco-tourist. Renting a car and visiting the natural wonders of Puerto Rico is both a pleasant and easy way to enjoy your vacation. Puerto Rico is only 100 miles long by 35 miles wide but is so rich in diverse terrain that it would require a few weeks of exploration to really begin to enjoy it all.
