Secrets of Spanish Florida

Secrets of Spanish Florida – A Secrets of the Dead Special uncovers one story of America’s past that never made it into textbooks. Follow some of America’s leading archaeologists, maritime scientists, and historians as they share the story of Florida’s earliest settlers. It’s a story that has taken more than 450 years to reveal.

55 years before the Pilgrims even arrived in Plymouth, the first true Thanksgiving took place in St. Augustine, Florida.

In the 18th Century, Dr. Andrew Turnbull's plantation in East Florida was the largest in North America. Turnbull employed more than 1,400 indentured servants from around the world - people fleeing famine and drought in their home countries. However, the conditions these servants faced on the plantation may have been more devastating than the hardships they left behind.

In the late 16th century, the Guale natives participated in a brutal uprising against their Catholic overseers. Legend says that Don Juanillo, heir to the chief, led the revolt because the friars would not allow him a second wife. However, there are reasons to suggest this may not be the full story.

When the Spanish settlers tried to move into Fort Caroline at present-day Anastasia Island, the French colonists were not pleased. As previous holders of the Fort, the French promised revenge...and may have exaggerated their efforts.