Fuerteventura is the second largest of the Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean of the coast of Africa. The island has a rich and diverse history, dating back to prehistoric times.In this article, we will explore the history of Fuerteventura, from its earliest settlers to the present day.Prehistory The earliest evidence of human habitation on Fuerteventura dates back to the Neolithic period, around 5000 BCE. Archaeologists have discovered various burial sites and tools from this time, indicating that the island was inhabited by prehistoric communities. These communities were likely nomadic and survived by fishing, hunting and gathering.
The Guanche Era
The next significant period in Fuerteventura’s history began with the arrival of the Guanchepeople. The Guanche were the indigenous peoples of the Canary Islands and are believed to have come from North Africa. They lived a simple and isolated lifestyle, relying on agriculture and livestock farming for their livelihood. The Guanche were a peaceful people and lived in small communities, ruled by a chief or king.
The Conquest of Fuerteventura
1402, the Kingdom of Castile, a kingdom in what is now Spain, began the conquest of theCanary Islands. Fuerteventura was the last of theCanary Islands to be conquered and was not fully under Spanish control until 1425. The island was then colonized by Spanish settlers,who brought with them their language, religion and culture. The Guanche people were largely enslaved or forced to work on the new settlers’ farms and ranches.
The Island under Spanish Rule
Fuerteventura became a part of the Spanish Empire and was used as a stopover for ships traveling between the Americas and Spain. The island remained relatively isolated and underdeveloped until the 19th century, when the port of Morro Jable was built to export local products, such as salt and cochineal. This led to a growth in the island’s economy and population, and Fuerteventura became an important hub for trade and commerce in the region.
The 20th CenturyIn
the 20th century, Fuerteventura experienced significant growth and development. In the1960s and 1970s, the island became a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world with its warm climate and beautiful beaches. This led to a boom in construction and development, as new hotels and resorts were built to accommodate the growing number of tourists.In the 1980s, Fuerteventura became a popular destination for windsurfing and kite surfing, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. This helped to further increase the island’s popularity and establish it as a top destination for outdoor activities and adventure sports.
