Barranquilla History, Colombia

 It was one of the places inhabited by Spaniards looking for spice trade.  However, even before these conquerors arrived in the area, there were several other settlements.  In fact, Caribbean tribes left traces and were tracked to have dominated the city in 2000 BC.  Follow the line of history of this remarkable Colombian city.

Spanish Colonization

The Spaniards ruled the land for several centuries.  Aside from looking for spices, these authorities were after gold, silver and other precious metals.

In their domination of Barranquilla, they never had the chance to see any of the materials they were looking for.  There was not even a sign coming from the Indian populace in the place which could have strengthened their premonitions of extracting the precious metals in the area.  Because of this, their colonization had gone astray forcing them to leave the islands in 1810, exactly 310 years after their occupation.

Rise of Barranquilla

The rise of the city was an effect seen during the mid 17th century.  This was tracked from the phantom of the prehistoric community known as the El partido de tierra adentro.  Back then, it was called Barrancas de San Nicolas coined after the several landings of canoes - which is the literal meaning of the word “Barrancas”. 

Barranquilla was a residence for several people coming from other areas.  Don Nicolas was one of the persons after whom a famous farm in the area was named.  Farming provided jobs for them and the city began to be known in the country.

During the 18th century, the city became closer to the colonial or majestic administration.  It also gained its recognition as a town.  It was during this period when it was given the name Barranquilla.  Back then, commerce and transportation were introduced to supplement the existence of agriculture.

War against Spain

The people of Barranquilla headed to conquering the Spanish settlement.  They wanted the rule to end so that illegal activities and smuggling would stop as well.  They took the side of the compatriots thus defeating the conquerors.  After this courageous undertaking, they had been called a “Village” which led to a Republican regime.

Changes after the Spanish Occupation

After winning the war and being independent from Spanish rule, other important events aroused resulting to a boom in commerce.  European and Asian people introduced architectural ideas.  During the early part of the 20th century, Barranquilla was named the Golden Gate to Colombia.  Now, it houses one of the most modern international airports in the country. 

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