Spanish commander and conqueror, Pedro de Heredia, founded Cartagena in 1533. Cartagena immediately became a magnet for English and French invaders and pirates due to its commercial and trade port qualities. It became a key player for the Spanish Empire. Protection was of utmost importance and Fuerte de Boquerón was built in the 16th century to discourage foreign penetration in the city. The remainder of the forts were built in the following years and continued to do so until the 18th century. Cartagena suffered many sieges by notorious pirates and personalities such as Sir John Hawkins in 1569, Sir Francis Drake in 1574, and Sir Jean du Casse (under Baron de Pointis) in 1697. Despite the destruction brought on the city from these attacks, the Spanish Crown continued to fortify the city with walls, fortresses, and castles.
The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, named in honor of Spanish King Philip IV, was built and used to counterattack incoming pirates. The castle's buildings currently serve as scenarios for social and official events. After the Raid on Cartagena, reconstruction efforts brought back the walls, forts, buildings and public services. Trade policies within the Spanish Empire began reformations which allowed and permitted new trade houses as well as private pursuits.
The Battle of Cartagena de Indias (1741), led by admiral Edward Vernon (England) unsuccessfully attempted to gain control of the city, bringing down many of his men due to Spanish military tactics and disease such as yellow fever. This victory helped Spain retain it's Empire until the 19th century. Cartagena's Silver Age began in 1750 when people permanently settled from other cities, and economic, political, and cultural power boomed. The Mutiny of Aranjuez, in 1808, brought forth much chaos to the already delicate and unstable Spanish Empire. Cartagena declared independence on November 11, 1811.
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