 Numerous factors led to the evacuation of St Kilda . The islands ' inhabitants had existed for centuries in relative isolation until tourism and the presence of the military during the First World War led the islanders to seek alternatives to privations they routinely suffered . The changes made to the island by visitors in the nineteenth century disconnected the islanders from the way of life that had allowed their forebears to survive in this unique environment . Despite construction of a small jetty in 1902 , the islands remained at the weather 's mercy . 
