Entry Date: 17.06.2024, at 12:00:00 hrs (local)
Road Town, BVI - St. Georges, Bermuda
Bermudas
| PRID: | 13039 |
|---|---|
| LegID: | 357 |
| LegNo: | 102 |
| Latitude: | N032°22.83' |
| Longitude: | W064°40.40' |
| Day#: | 1551 |
| Log (Leg): | 853 nm |
| Log (Total): | 82345 nm |
Discovered in 1503 by Spanish explorer Juan de Bermudez, Bermuda remained uninhabited until 1609 when the Sea Venture, an English ship bound for Jamestown, was wrecked on its reefs. The survivors, led by Admiral Sir George Somers and Governor Thomas Gates, spent ten months on the island, sparking interest in its settlement.
In 1612, the Virginia Company established Bermuda´s first permanent European settlement at St. George´s. Control was later transferred to the Somers Isles Company, leading to economic growth through tobacco cultivation and maritime industries.
Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Bermuda became a prosperous maritime society, known for privateering and shipbuilding. The African slave trade brought significant demographic changes, with people of African descent playing a crucial role in Bermuda´s cultural diversity.
Bermuda´s strategic importance grew during the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, leading to the establishment of the Royal Naval Dockyard (photo). The 20th century saw a shift to tourism and offshore finance as key economic drivers, transforming Bermuda´s economy and society.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Bermuda experienced political and social changes, moving towards greater self-governance. While discussions about full independence continue, Bermuda remains a British Overseas Territory with significant self-government.
Today, Bermuda is a vibrant, multicultural society with a dynamic economy centered on tourism and international business, reflecting its diverse historical influences and resilience. 150 to 180 cruise ships dock annually at the Royal Naval Dockyard, flooding the island group with tourists for a few hours.
