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The European explorer Juan Ponce de Leon came upon what is now Florida in 1513. He named the area la Florida for Pascua Florida, the Spanish Easter celebration meaning "feast of the flowers." Following explorations by additional Spanish conquistadores, other Europeans visited the area, which encouraged Spain to colonize the region. Pedro Menéndez de Avilés arrived in 1565 and established the first permanent European settlement in the country, which is now called St. Augustine.
The British did not gain control in Florida until 1763, in exchange for Havana, Cuba. However, Spain regained Florida following the American Revolution. American settlers arrived, and eventually Spain ceded Florida to the United States in 1821. Clashes with the native peoples, the Creeks, Miccosukee, and Seminoles resulted in the eventual formation of reservations.
Florida became a state in 1845. The state was spared the worst of the damage of the American Civil War. Towards the end of the nineteenth century, agriculture became prevalent, and tourism from the northern states had become more popular. Innovations in Florida’s transportation system led to its success in exporting its citrus and other products. The advent of the automobile boosted Florida’s status as a major tourist destination, and it has remained such ever since.
Twentieth century highlights of Florida’s history include post-World War II booms and the rise of the Space Age. Now the Sunshine State is still renowned globally as a top tourist destination, with its theme parks and balmy climate.
Some famous Floridians include Seminole leader Osceola, singer Jim Morrison, actress Faye Dunaway, attorney general Janet Reno, and actor Sidney Poitier.
As Florida ventures further into the twenty-first century, the culturally diverse state aims to push forward in its endeavors to become a hub for the biotechnology and life science industries.
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