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Réunion

Réunion was first visited by the Portuguese c.1512 and settled by France in 1642. The island was developed first for coffee plantations and then for sugar cane. It changed hands briefly as a result of the Napoleonic Wars, but was returned to France under the Treaty of Paris. After World War II the island became a French overseas département, in the hope of improving conditions for its inhabitants.
Réunion History from Lonely Planet
A quirky, colloquial presentation of Réunion’s history presented by LonelyPlanet.com. Makes awfully good reading and may galvanize your interest in Africa’s regional history. Not only suitable for travelers.
Réunion - a Territory Profile from the BBC
An extremely brief historical overview accompanies this BBC Country Profile of Réunion. Of particular interest are the simplified regional map (see where the country is in Africa), a photograph of Réunion’s current Chief of State, and details about the countries media.

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