History in a Nutshell!
The history of St Helena is fascinating and touches many aspects of world history. discovered by the Portuguese in 1502, it became a Dutch then a British possession (initially under the East India Company then the Crown). It was a strategically important port of call during the British Empire, until the opening of the Suez Canal and the advent of steamships. The Island's remote location meant it was used as a place of exile for key prisoners, including some 6,000 Boers, Chief Dinizulu, Bahraini princes, and, of course, Napoleon, who died on St Helena. The Island also played an important role during the abolition of slavery. This heritage provides a significant legacy of fortifications, remains, historic buildings, and what has been described as "the quintessential Atlantic port" - Jamestown.
