| Year |
Event |
| 1503 |
While en route from Panama to Hispaniola (now the Dominican Republic and Haiti) Christopher Columbus spots 2 small islands (Cayman Brac and Little Cayman). He names the islands ‘Las Tortugas’ after the numerous sea turtles he sighted. |
| 1540 |
The islands become known as Caymanas after the Carib word for marine crocodile. |
| 1585 |
Sir Francis Drake visits the islands. |
| 1666 |
The first settlers arrive from Jamaica. Subsequent attacks by Spanish privateers force them to flee. |
| 1670 |
Treaty of Madrid is signed by Britain and Spain. Under the terms of the treaty, the British take formal control of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. |
| 1734 |
Permanent settlement of Grand Cayman begins following the first royal land grant. |
| 1794 |
A fleet of 10 merchant ships runs aground off Grand Cayman’s East End and the crew is saved by local settlers. According to the local legend, the Wreck of the Ten Sails, one of those saved was a member of the British Royal Family, and in gratitude, King George III decreed that Caymanians should never be taxed. |
| 1831 |
Residents meet at Pedro St. James and vote to create a legislative assembly. |
| 1832 |
Democracy is born. A legislative assembly is established. It consists of 8 magistrates appointed by the Governor of Jamaica and 10 elected representatives. |
| 1835 |
The proclamation declaring the emancipation of slaves is read at Pedro St. James. |
| 1863 |
The Cayman Islands are officially declared a dependency of Jamaica. |
| 1954 |
Owen Roberts International Airport officially opened. |
| 1957 |
The islands’ first recreational diving operation is opened by Bob Soto. Tourism begins to develop on Seven Mile Beach. |
| 1962 |
Jamaica gains independence. The Cayman Islands decide to remain a British Crown Colony. |
| 1966 |
Banking and trust laws are passed and act as the foundation for the islands’ financial services and banking industry. |
| 1971 |
The islands’ first Governor is appointed. |
| 2004 |
Hurricane Ivan devastates the islands. |