HISTORY

In 1493 Christopher Columbus was the first European visitor. Impressed by the number of islands dotting the horizon, he named them Las Once Mil Virgenes—the 11,000 Virgins—in honor of the 11,000 virgin companions of St. Ursula, martyred in the 4th century. In the ensuing years, the Spaniards passed through, fruitlessly seeking gold. Then came pirates and buccaneers, who found the islands’ hidden coves and treacherous reefs ideal bases from which to prey on passing galleons crammed with gold, silver, and spices. Among the most notorious of these fellows were Blackbeard Teach, Bluebeard, Captain Kidd, and St. Francis Drake, who lent his name to the channel that sweeps through the BVI’s two main clusters. In the 17th century the colorful cutthroats were replaced by the Dutch, who, in turn, were sent packing by the British. It was the British who established the plantation economy and for the next 150 years developed the sugar industry. When slavery was abolished in 1838, the plantation economy faltered, and the majority of the white population left for Europe.

The islands are still politically tied to Britain. The governor, appointed by the queen of England, has limited powers, and these are concentrated on external affairs and local security. The local legislative council, with representatives from nine districts, administers all other matters. General elections are held every four year and the political mood is serene.

Although offshore banking is currently the BVI’s number one industry, tourism is the second major source of income, and the majority of the island’s jobs are tourism-related. The Beef Island airport has been recently expanded and the enlarged runway accommodates larger prop planes and small regional jets but is still too small for full-size jets, so there’s no doubt that BVIers—who so love their unspoiled tropical home—will maintain their islands’ easygoing charms for both themselves and their guests.

Source: Fodor’s 16th Edition Guide to The U.S. & British Virgin Islands