Discord
836 – 1513

Pre-colonial period

Before the arrival of the Europeans, Leonida was inhabited by various indigenous tribes such as the Lioris and Florinoks. These peoples lived by fishing, hunting and farming, and their rich culture has left its mark on our heritage today.

The richness of Leonidas indigenous culture is also evident in its archaeological artifacts, oral traditions and artistic practices. The indigenous peoples had their own languages, religious beliefs, customs and traditions that have survived through the ages and continue to influence Leonidas culture today.

A colorful mural depicting the indigenous tribes of Leonida, showing their totem poles, wooden dwellings and cornfields.
A colorful mural depicting the indigenous tribes of Leonida, showing their totem poles, wooden dwellings and cornfields.
1513 – 1683

European Colonization

On April 2, 1513, the Spanish explorer Don Fernando de Valera discovered the magnificent coastline of Leonida. In search of the legendary Fountain of Youth, he was amazed by the beauty and natural abundance of the region, which he named “Leonida” after the mythical lion that, according to local legend, guarded this prosperous land.

In 1565, Hernando Alvarez de Castille founded Grande Augusta, a city that would become the historical heart of Leonida. The city quickly became a center of commerce and culture, establishing the first permanent European settlement on the territory of what would become the state of Leonida.

A painting of Don Ponzo de León landing on the beaches of Leonida
A painting of Don Ponzo de León landing on the beaches of Leonida
An illustration of Spanish and British representatives signing the Treaty of Paris

For centuries, Leonida was the scene of numerous conflicts between the Spanish, the French and the British. The French, led by Jean-Luc Beaumont and Philippe Moreau, attempted to establish colonies, but were rebuffed by the Spanish, who sought to maintain control of this strategic land.

1683 – 1783

Treaty of Paris

An illustration of Spanish and British representatives signing the Treaty of Paris
An illustration of Spanish and British representatives signing the Treaty of Paris

After the Seven Years’ War, Leonida was ceded by Spain to Great Britain in 1763. The British divided the region into Eastern and Western Leonida, each playing a key role in the trade of the time.

After the American War of Independence, Leonida was returned to Spain in 1783 under the Treaty of Paris, reinforcing the Hispanic heritage that still influences our culture today.

1819 – 1861

Integration in the United States

A representation of the ceremony in the United States, with Spanish and American flags
A representation of the ceremony in the United States, with Spanish and American flags

In 1819, Spain ceded Leonida to the United States under the Treaty of Valencio-Merida, marking a decisive turning point in the history of our state. In 1821, Leonida officially became an American territory, ushering in a new era of development and prosperity.

On October 18, 1845, Leonida became the 29th state of the United States. The region, at the time largely rural, began to develop economically through agriculture and commerce, laying the foundation for our modern economy.