History
The island of Cuba was first discovered by Europeans in 1492 during Columbus' second voyage. The native people were quickly conquered by the Spanish and their population was decimated in a matter of years. Spanish settlements were formed as a means to export gold and organize expeditions to the mainland. What little profit there was to make from the gold mines was exhausted quickly, but the Spanish soon discovered Cuba's potential in agriculture. The island's ability to supply sugarcane, tobacco, coffee, corn, and numerous other resources made it thrive economically. By the mid 18th century, Cuba had a population of nearly 1,300,000 people.
Timeline
Cuban Settlement and History on Dipity.