History of Puerto Rico

Background: Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, the island was ceded by Spain to the US in 1898 following the Spanish-American War. A popularly elected governor has served since 1948. In plebiscites held 1967, 1993 and 1998, voters chose to retain commonwealth status. Still, there are highly active movements promoting statehood and independence.

On March 1, 1954 Puerto Rican nationalists attacked the United States Capitol building, injuring five Representatives.

See also : Puerto Rico