The Second Spanish Period (1784-1821) In return for Spain’s help
during the American Revolution, Florida was transferred back to
Spain by the Treaties of Versailles, part of the Peace of Paris,
in 1783. Just like when the whole Spanish population moved to
Cuba when the British took control, this time most of the
British departed for British colonies in the Caribbean in spite
of Governor Zespedes’ promise of equal treatment. The Menorcans,
however, were very glad to have a Spanish, Catholic government
return to power. Governor Zespedes knew Florida needed more
people, regardless of nationality, in order to survive. He
offered large land grants, a ten year tax free occupancy, and a
cash bonus to any family who would come to start a farm. He even
offered to pay each pioneer 1.5 cents a day for feed supplies.
Despite these generous offers, it was necessary by 1786 to drop
the restrictions on non-Catholic settlers. Equally significant,
the Spanish Government agreed to allow the migration of slave
holders into Flor