Republic of Cuba history Early History & Spanish Rule (Pre-1492 - 1898) Indigenous Inhabitants: The island was home to Taino, Siboney, and Guanahatabey peoples before Columbus. Columbus & Colonization: Columbus arrived in 1492; Spain established settlements starting in 1511, with Havana becoming a key port. Sugar & Slavery: The economy shifted to sugar plantations, requiring massive imports of enslaved Africans, making Cuba a major sugar producer. British Occupation: Britain briefly took Havana