Noting the remarkably shallow sea that surrounded the archipelago, Columbus declared the islands to be "baja mar" (shallow water), effectively naming the area The Bahamas - The Islands of the Shallow Sea. However, the benevolence he felt towards the land he had 'discoved' didn't extend to the native population, which soon dwindled away to nothing after being enslaved.
Once The Bahamas were on the map, their location close to Florida and well-travelled shipping channels, meant it wasn't long before they caught the attention of explorers, settlers, invaders and traders. It was these people above all other, who shaped the colourful history of The Bahamas and made the country what it is today.
