Mexico gains its independence from Spain, and Santa Catalina Island becomes a territory of Mexico. 1790sĬatalina Island’s sea otter population is wiped out by American, Russian and Aleut Indian hunters.
On the eve of Saint Catherine of Alexandria Day, Spanish explorer Sebastián Vizcaíno lands on the island and renames it Santa Catalina in her honor. Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo claims the island for Spain and names it San Salvador after the flagship of his fleet. Historical Timeline Significant Events in the History of Catalina Island and the Island CompanyĪccording to archaeological evidence, the first inhabitants of Santa Catalina Island arrive during this period.
