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Puerto Rico was first founded in 1493 by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage. Over the following 600 years, the island was a colony of Spain, beat off attacks by the British and Dutch, among others, and finally was lost in the Spanish American War in 1898 to the Americans. Over those 600 years, the boundaries and names and important landmarks have changed. Taking a look back at old maps and comparing them to the new Puerto Rico maps demonstrates some of the interesting changes that have happened in Puerto Rican history and culture….
This map shows the various Taino tribes that were located in Puerto Rico at the time of Columbus’ arrival in 1493. At the time, the island was called Boriquen by the natives. The Conquistadores christened the island San Juan, but due to a typographical error on transcribing maps back in Spain, the name for San Juan and Porto Rico were switched.
16th Century Maps
These Puerto Rico maps all look distorted and vague, yet the coastlines are very clear. This demonstrates the importance and use of the maps for sailing purposes. It also shows how little permanent dent was made into the interior of the Island. During this time there were constant clashes between the Europeans and Tainos and with disease, war, etc. it was difficult for the Europeans to access and maintain control of the central mountainous region.
Puerto Rico Map (1592)
Puerto Rico Map (1604)
19th Century Maps
By this time, the maps of Puerto Rico have become incredible detailed. The interior mountainous region has become populated and the coffee and sugar industries are in full force exporting around the world.
Puerto Rico Map (1886)
Puerto Rico Map (1888)
20th Century Maps
With the Americans taking over Puerto Rico at the turn of the century, there are many changes going on – political and economic. Sugar takes over as the monoculture and is increasingly industrialized. Railroads and roads are built to facilitate the movement of sugar cane. The importance of this industry is seen in how the roads and railroads are built.
Puerto Rico Map (1900)
To see more maps of Puerto Rico, both then and now, you can check out these links:
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