Illustration de l'esclavage. Des esclaves entrain de cultiver la canne à sucre.

The history of Guadeloupe

Travel through time in the heart of the Caribbean

Discover the historical past of Guadeloupe, this emblematic Caribbean island, through places and monuments that bear witness to its rich past . From the first Amerindian inhabitants to the French colonial influences, including the struggles for freedom.

Portrait of a Kalinago woman having her face painted with traditional designs, symbolizing the culture and ancestral traditions of the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean.

Native Americans

The First Civilizations

Guadeloupe was first inhabited by the Arawak and Carib Amerindian peoples, long before the arrival of Europeans. Their presence and culture are still perceptible on certain archaeological sites such as the Edgar Clerc Museum in Le Moule, where you can observe ancient objects, pottery, and tools that bear witness to their way of life. This museum is an essential stop for those who wish to learn more about the origins of the island. There is also the Parc Archéologique des Roches Gravées in Trois-Rivières. This site brings together ancient Amerindian rock engravings, testifying to the art and beliefs of the first inhabitants.

Photo historique représentant le peuple Arawak en Guadeloupe, montrant leur culture et leurs interactions dans le contexte de l'esclavage colonial. Une scène symbolique de la résilience et des traditions ancestrales des premiers habitants des Caraïbes.

Painting depicting three colonialist ships arriving in Guadeloupe, symbolizing the era of slavery, with imposing sailboats on a rough sea.

Colonization and Emancipation

The arrival of the Europeans

In 1493, Christopher Columbus landed in Guadeloupe on his second voyage. This encounter marked the beginning of European influence on the island. The first French settlers arrived in the 17th century, and the island became a strategic point for the French crown. Tourists can learn about this era at Fort Fleur d'Épée, a military fort in Gosier, which offers stunning views and exhibits on French colonization.

Recommended place : La Maison de l'Esclavage et des Droits de l'Homme in Petit-Canal. This museum plunges you into the dark history of slavery, which had a profound impact on the island.

Another place of interest is Fort Delgrès in Basse-Terre, a former French military fort and a major site of resistance against colonization. It pays tribute to Louis Delgrès, a leading figure in the fight against slavery.

The Abolition of Slavery

The fight for freedom has marked the history of Guadeloupe, notably with emblematic figures such as Louis Delgrès. Guadeloupe became one of the first territories to obtain the abolition of slavery in 1848. Forts Napoléon and Delgrès in Basse-Terre pay tribute to these resistance fighters and are must-see places for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the island's abolitionist history.

Recommended place : The ACTe Memorial in Pointe-à-Pitre. This Caribbean center of expressions and memory of the slave trade and slavery is a must to understand the history of slavery in the Antilles and its current legacy.

Painting depicting the abolition of slavery in 1848: black men and women celebrate their freedom in a burst of emotion, alongside a colonist brandishing the French flag, symbolizing the official proclamation. A scene loaded with history and symbolism, illustrating the end of an era of servitude.

Group of Guadeloupeans playing the gwoka, a traditional drum, accompanied by a dancer in motion in a colorful outfit, celebrating the culture and heritage of Guadeloupe.

Creole culture and heritage

Modern Guadeloupe

The history of Guadeloupe would not be complete without discussing its Creole heritage, which is reflected in its music, cuisine, and traditions.

Recommended place : Saint-John Perse Museum in Pointe-à-Pitre. This museum is dedicated to the poet Saint-John Perse, born in Guadeloupe and Nobel Prize winner in literature. It is a great opportunity to discover the cultural and literary heritage of the island.
Another place of interest : The Damoiseau Distillery in Le Moule, one of the island's iconic distilleries. The importance of sugar cane cultivation and rum production for the Guadeloupean economy and heritage.

Music, dance and carnival

The history of Guadeloupe is also experienced through its festive traditions. Traditional music, gwoka, and the Guadeloupe carnival are unique experiences that will immerse you in the soul of the island.

Recommended place : The Artisanal Village of Sainte-Anne where you can buy traditional instruments, or attend gwoka shows, a symbol of Guadeloupean culture.

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A vibrant carnival group dressed in traditional orange and yellow costumes, parading with energy and vibrancy, reflecting the cultural richness of Caribbean festivities.

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