What year did Spanish colonization begin in Puerto Rico?

Answer 1

Puerto Rico was claimed by Spain on November 19, 1493 and it was ceded to the United States on December 10, 1898 as a result of the Treaty of Paris ending the Spanish American War.

Puerto Rico was a colony of Spain for 405 years and 11 days*

*In 1582 Spain changed from the Julian Calendar to the Gregorian Calendar -- the calendar we use today. As a result, Spain "skipped" 10 days. In 1582, October 4th was followed by October 15th in Spain. England changed calendars in 1753 (skipping 11 days). So the answer is not 405 years and 21 days.

The United States began an invasion and occupation of Puerto Rico on July 25, 1898, but the territory was still claimed by Spain until the treaty of Paris was signed. nearly six months later. Some may argue that the treaty did not go into effect until April 11, 1899 when the ratification of the treaty was complete, but the December 1998 date is what is recognized as the date of hand-over by the government of Puerto Rico.

Answer 2

Per Wikipedia, Columbus claimed the island for Spain on his second voyage, on 19th November 1493