The History of Tampa dates back to 1824 after the founding of Fort Brooke along the Hillsborough River after USA took Florida from Spain. Soon after, a number of civilians were brought to the areas, and in 1855, the town of Tampa, FL was incorporated.
During this time, growth was slowed by an array of factors, including poor transport, consistent attacks by the Seminole tribe, and continuous outbreaks of Yellow Fever. Thanks to Reconstruction and civil war, the town of Tampa was disincoporated for over ten years.
In the 1880s, however, the first railroad links were constructed, and the economy of this area started thriving. The phosphate and cigar industries grew significantly, and the Ybor City Neighborhood was established as a result.
The population of this town grew from 800 in 1880 to over 15,000 in 1900. Consequently, Tampa became one of the largest cities in Florida.
Tampa in the 20th century
The economy continued to grow in the 20th century. This city emerged as an enviable commercial, trade, and financial hub. It found itself in the books of American history by being the place where the first commercial plane landed in 1914.
On the flipside, the number of organized crimes started to skyrocket, and security became a major concern for the authorities.
Population surpassed the 100,000 mark in the 1930s, 250,000 in the 1950s, and over 300,000 in the 1990s.
Neighborhoods started sprouting as real estate became a lucrative business due to the ever-growing demand for housing. The land area of this city grew significantly, and the city even annexed neighboring communities such as Port Tampa, Sulphur Springs, West Tampa, and Palma Ceia.
Tampa in the 21st century
Today, Tampa is one of the most vibrant cities in Florida. It is home to some of the best attractions in America, including modern day museums such as Tampa Children’s Museum, Tampa Museum of Art, and the Tampa Bay History Center.
The new Riverwalk is another notable initiatives that have added to the glamour of this amazing city in the 21st century. This is a path situated along the Hillsborough River, which connects different attractions and neighborhoods in this city.
Apart from being a thriving economy, Tampa is the home of different cultures. A majority of the inhabitants are immigrants of different parts of the world. A host of festivals and events take place in this city, including the pirate invasion which takes place every year.
Thanks to the livability, job opportunities, livability, and the attractions found in this place, it can be confidently stated that Tampa is, without a doubt, one of the best cities to work, live, and visit in Florida.