Military Influence
World War II brought a significant military presence to Orlando. The establishment of the Orlando Army Air Base and Pinecastle Army Airfield contributed to the city’s growth. In 1956, the aerospace and defense company Martin Marietta (now Lockheed Martin) opened a plant in the city, further bolstering the local economy.
The Disney Era and Tourism Boom
A pivotal moment in Orlando’s history occurred in 1965 when Walt Disney announced plans to build Walt Disney World near the city. Opening in October 1971, the resort spurred explosive population and economic growth, transforming Orlando into a global tourist destination. The city’s proximity to other attractions, such as Universal Studios and SeaWorld, solidified its status as a premier entertainment hub.
Modern Developments
Today, Orlando is renowned for its theme parks and entertainment attractions, boasting more such venues than any other city worldwide. The historic core of “Old Orlando” resides in downtown along Church Street, between Orange Avenue and Garland Avenue. Neighborhoods like Lake Eola Heights and Thornton Park showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage, with century-old oaks lining brick streets.
Recent Events
On June 12, 2016, Orlando was the site of a tragic mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub, where 49 people lost their lives. This event profoundly impacted the community, leading to numerous vigils and plans for a permanent memorial to honor the victims.
Orlando’s journey from a small settlement to a bustling metropolis reflects its resilience and adaptability. Its rich history continues to influence its cultural and economic landscape, making it a unique and dynamic city.
Orlando, located in central Florida, boasts a rich and diverse history that has shaped it into the vibrant city it is today. From its early settlement days to its emergence as a global tourist destination, Orlando’s past is marked by significant events and transformations.
Early Settlement and Founding
In 1823, the Treaty of Moultrie Creek established a Seminole reservation encompassing much of central Florida, including the area that would become Orlando. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 led to the relocation of the Seminole people, paving the way for increased white settlement. The Armed Occupation Act of 1842 further encouraged settlers to move into the region. In 1843, Aaron Jernigan from Camden County, Georgia, became the first permanent settler, establishing a homestead near Lake Holden.
Initially, the community was known as Jernigan, named after the pioneering family. By 1850, Jernigan had established a post office. As the settlement expanded northward, the name was changed to Orlando in 1856. The origin of the name “Orlando” is debated, with theories ranging from it being named after a soldier named Orlando Reeves to being inspired by a character from Shakespeare’s works.
Development and Growth
Orlando was incorporated as a town on July 31, 1875, with 85 residents. The period from 1875 to 1895 is often referred to as Orlando’s “Golden Era,” during which it became the hub of Florida’s citrus industry. However, the Great Freeze of 1894–95 devastated citrus crops, leading many growers to relocate further south.
In the early 20th century, Orlando transformed into a popular resort destination, especially between the Spanish–American War and World War I. The 1920s saw a housing boom, with numerous neighborhoods emerging around the downtown area. This growth was curtailed by hurricanes in the late 1920s and the onset of the Great Depression.