The Founding of St. Augustine

St. Augustine, in what is now Florida, is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the present‑day United States. It was founded on September 8, 1565 by Spanish admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés. Spain wanted to establish a permanent colony in Florida to protect its valuable treasure fleets and guard against French threats. At the time, a French outpost called Fort Caroline had been built near modern Jacksonville, challenging Spain's claim.

Why It Was Founded

Spain controlled much of the Caribbean and relied on treasure ships loaded with gold and silver from Mexico and Peru. Fort Caroline, established by France, posed a threat to these riches. King Philip II ordered Menéndez to remove the French and secure the region. Menéndez sailed with ships, soldiers, and settlers and won a key victory. He destroyed Fort Caroline and established St. Augustine as Spain’s permanent stronghold.

Life in the Early Colony

The first years in St. Augustine were extremely difficult. Settlers endured hurricanes, limited food supplies, and occasional attacks from Native Americans and pirates. Despite this, they built homes, a church, and a mission to convert the local Timucuan people to Christianity. In 1672, they began building the Castillo de San Marcos, a stone fort that still stands today.

Long‑Term Influence

St. Augustine remained under Spanish rule for over 200 years, except during a brief period under British control. The fortress and mission system helped Spain maintain influence and protect its treasure routes. Today, St. Augustine is celebrated for its rich colonial history and preserved historic buildings.

Discussion Questions

1. Why did Spain feel it needed a settlement in Florida?
2. How did removing the French at Fort Caroline help Spanish goals?
3. What hardships did the early residents of St. Augustine face?
4. Why is St. Augustine considered historically important in U.S. history?

Glossary

• Colony: A settlement controlled by another country.
• Treasure fleet: Ships carrying gold/silver from the Americas to Spain.
• Mission: A religious outpost set up to convert indigenous peoples.
• Stronghold: A fortified place used to defend territory.
• Castillo de San Marcos: The stone fort built in St. Augustine starting in 1672.

Five Interesting Facts

• Founded in 1565—42 years before Jamestown (1607).
• Spain and Britain controlled it at different times.
• The Castillo de San Marcos is made of coquina, a local shell‑limestone mix.
• Pirates and English raiders attacked it in the 1500s and 1600s.
• Today it’s a major tourist destination known for Spanish architecture.

Timeline

• 1513: Ponce de León claims Florida for Spain.
• 1564: French establish Fort Caroline.
• 1565: Menéndez founds St. Augustine.
• 1586: English privateer Francis Drake raids the town.
• 1672: Building of Castillo de San Marcos begins.
• 1763: Britain takes control of Florida.
• 1784: Spain regains Florida post‑American Revolution.