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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.
(Dates in italics indicate de facto continuation of office)
(later northern Santiago)
(southern Santiago)
For continuation after independence, see: List of presidents of Cape Verde