East Florida

East Florida was a territory of Spanish Florida from 1783 until 1821, when it was ceded to the United States under the terms of the Adams-Onís Treaty. It comprised the eastern part of the present-day state of Florida, with its capital at St. Augustine.

History

Spanish Rule

East Florida was established as a separate colony from West Florida in 1763, following the Treaty of Paris (1763), which ended the Seven Years' War. The British divided the territory of Florida into two colonies: East Florida and West Florida. East Florida included the area east of the Apalachicola River, while West Florida included the area to the west.

In 1783, following the American Revolutionary War, the territory was returned to Spain under the terms of the Treaty of Paris (1783). Spanish rule was re-established, and the region remained under Spanish control until it was ceded to the United States in 1821.

American Acquisition

The Adams-Onís Treaty, also known as the Transcontinental Treaty, was signed in 1819 and ratified in 1821. Under this treaty, Spain ceded East Florida and West Florida to the United States. The treaty also defined the boundary between the U.S. and New Spain (now Mexico).

Following the acquisition, East Florida was merged with West Florida to form the Florida Territory, which later became the state of Florida in 1845.

Geography

East Florida was characterized by its coastal plains, swamps, and forests. The region's major rivers included the St. Johns River, which flows northward through the territory, and the Suwannee River, which forms part of the boundary with West Florida.

Economy

The economy of East Florida was primarily based on agriculture, with plantations growing crops such as indigo, rice, and cotton. The region also had a significant timber industry, and its ports facilitated trade with other parts of the Caribbean and Europe.

Demographics

The population of East Florida included a mix of Spanish, British, and Native American inhabitants, as well as African slaves who worked on the plantations. The region's diverse population contributed to its unique cultural heritage.

Legacy

The history of East Florida is an important part of the broader history of Florida and the southeastern United States. The region's colonial past is reflected in the architecture and cultural traditions of modern-day Florida.

See also

• West Florida
• Spanish Florida
• Adams-Onís Treaty
• Florida Territory
• St. Augustine, Florida