Britain acquired Florida from Spain in 1763 after the Seven Years' War, dividing it into East and West Florida. This strategic move expanded British territory in North America and provided access to important waterways.

British rule brought significant changes to Florida. They implemented land grants, promoted agriculture, improved infrastructure, and encouraged settlement. This led to population growth, economic development, and lasting cultural impacts, despite the relatively short period of British control.

British Acquisition and Governance of Florida

British acquisition of Florida

• Seven Years' War (1756-1763) global conflict involved European powers spread across multiple continents (North America, Europe, India)
• Treaty of Paris (1763) ended Seven Years' War resulted in Spain ceding Florida to Britain in exchange for Havana
• British sought to expand North American territory and control Florida peninsula for strategic maritime advantages (access to Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean)
• Spain struggled to effectively defend and develop Florida focused resources on more profitable colonies (Mexico, Peru)

East and West Florida division

• East Florida capital St. Augustine encompassed Atlantic coast to Apalachicola River
• West Florida capital Pensacola stretched from Apalachicola River to Mississippi River
• Division facilitated easier administration of large territory recognized distinct geographic and economic regions
• Separate governors appointed for each province both under ultimate control of British Crown

British governors' policies in Florida

• Land grant system encouraged settlement through generous land grants attracted colonists from other British territories and Europe
• Agricultural development promoted cash crops (indigo, rice, citrus) introduced new farming techniques
• Native American relations established trade maintained peace with indigenous tribes implemented Proclamation Line of 1763
• Infrastructure improvements constructed roads to connect settlements developed ports for trade
• Religious tolerance allowed practice of Catholicism to retain Spanish settlers encouraged Protestant immigration

Impact of British rule on Florida

• Population increase saw influx of British colonists including Loyalists during American Revolution attracted immigrants from other European countries (Greece, Italy, Minorca)
• Economic growth expanded trade networks increased agricultural production and exports
• Urban development grew St. Augustine and Pensacola established new settlements (New Smyrna)
• Cultural changes introduced British legal and administrative systems shifted towards English as dominant language
• Environmental impact cleared land for agriculture and settlements introduced new plant and animal species
• Short duration of rule limited long-term impact due to return to Spanish control in 1783 left lasting influence on Florida's demographic composition