The islands of Cape Verde were uninhabited when discovered and claimed by Portugal in 1456. A Portuguese colony was established in 1462. The islands were united as a single crown colony in 1587. In 1951, the islands became an overseas province of Portugal. Autonomy was granted in 1974 and independence was granted on 5 July 1975. List (Dates in italics indicate de facto continuation of office) Santiago (later northern Santiago) Ribeira Grande (southern Santiago) Boa Vista Alcatrazes Islands Praia Fogo Sal, Santa Luzia and Brava Santo Antão The Islands of Cape Verde For continuation after independence, see: List of presidents of Cape Verde See also Cape Verde Politics of Cape Verde List of presidents of Cape Verde List of prime ministers of Cape Verde Lists of office-holders External links World Statesmen – Cabo Verde (Cape Verde) Cape Verde Colonial Governors List Cape Verde Cape Verdean history timelines