Discovery and early use of the islands. (Early Explorers)

Who first discovered the Cayman Islands on May 10^th, 1503? 

Christopher Columbus

Which English explorer was the first to set foot on Grand Cayman in 1586? 

Sir Francis Drake

Which map was the first to show the existence and location of the Cayman Islands? 

Turin Map (1523)

What was the first “really convincing” map to show the location of the 3 Cayman Islands? 

Vespucci Map (1526)

Who was the first surveyor to visit and map the Cayman Islands? 

George Gauld (1773)

What was the first name did Christopher Columbus give to the Cayman Islands?

“Las Tortugas” due to the abundance of turtles on and surrounding the island.

“Las torguas” was later changed to what name which has now stuck throughout history.

“Cayman” from the Carib word for “Crocodile”

When the Island remained uninhabited for over a century, what did it serve as?

Served as a refuge for pirates, shipwrecked sailors, and deserters.

Cayman’s strategic location made them a frequent stopover for ships seeking what in particular?

fresh meat from turtles and other resources.