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Located in the southeastern region of Puerto Rico, Guayama Municipality is a small yet significant county with a rich and vibrant history. Here are seven interesting facts about Guayama's past that you might not know.
1. Guayama's origins can be traced back to the Taíno Indians, the original inhabitants of Puerto Rico. Before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, the area that is now known as Guayama was called Guayama-Abajo.
2. The Spanish founded Guayama in 1736 and named it San Antonio de Guayama. During its early years, the town was primarily an agricultural center, with sugarcane being the main crop.
3. In the 19th century, Guayama became an important hub for coffee production, which remains one of the county's major industries to this day.
4. In 1898, the United States invaded Puerto Rico and took control of the island from Spain. Guayama played a small yet significant role in the U.S. invasion, as it was the site of one of the first confrontations between American and Spanish troops.
5. During the early 20th century, Guayama experienced significant economic growth thanks to the establishment of several manufacturing companies. In particular, the textile industry became a vital part of the county's economy.
6. In the 1920s, Guayama's baseball team, los Brujos ("the Witches"), became known throughout the island for their success on the field. The team's star player, Hiram Bithorn, went on to become the first Puerto Rican to play in Major League Baseball in the United States.
7. In more recent times, Guayama has become known for its vibrant arts scene. The county is home to several galleries, museums, and cultural events, including the annual "Festival Nacional de la Hamaca" (National Hammock Festival), which celebrates the region's traditional craft of hammock-making.
From its Taíno roots to its present-day cultural vibrancy, Guayama Municipality has a unique and fascinating history that has played a significant role in shaping Puerto Rico as a whole.
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