- The Everglades was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Seminole, Miccosukee, and Tequesta tribes for thousands of years. These tribes relied on the abundance of natural resources in the Everglades for sustenance, shelter, and cultural practices.
European Explorers and Settlers:
- European explorers, including Juan Ponce de Leon and Hernando de Soto, first arrived in the Everglades region during the 16th century. They were followed by Spanish settlers who established missions and small settlements along the coast.
Refugees and Homesteaders:
- In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Everglades attracted refugees and homesteaders seeking a new beginning. Many former slaves and immigrants from countries such as the Bahamas and Cuba settled in the region, establishing agricultural communities and building small towns.
Environmentalists and Conservationists:
- In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as awareness of the unique ecological importance of the Everglades grew, environmentalists and conservationists began to advocate for its protection. This led to the establishment of Everglades National Park in 1934, which aimed to preserve the natural ecosystems and cultural heritage of the region.
