Gulf Coast Life: Uncovering American Origin Stories in “La Florida”
Southwest Florida residents are delving into a lesser-known aspect of American history with the release of the book “La Florida: Catholics, Conquistadores, and Other American Origin Stories.” Written by Dr. Kevin Kokomoor, a full-time faculty member in the history department at Coastal Carolina University, the book sheds light on the Spanish influence on early American history.
Exploring Early Celebrations
The book opens with a fascinating story set in what is now Florida in 1565, where Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés and his men marked a significant moment with a ‘feast day of commemoration’ upon landing at the future site of St. Augustine. This event, reminiscent of the first Thanksgiving we often associate with the Pilgrims in 1621, raises questions about why it is not considered the “first Thanksgiving.” Dr. Kokomoor delves into this query, offering fresh insights and perspectives.
The Spanish Thread in American History
Despite the prevalence of English-centric narratives in American history, “La Florida” underscores the significant role of Spanish influence in shaping the country’s early years. Dr. Kokomoor’s research reveals how Spanish explorers and settlers played a pivotal role in driving America’s history, challenging conventional beliefs and highlighting a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of our nation’s heritage.
As “La Florida” continues to spark conversations and provoke reflections on American history, the residents of Southwest Florida are encouraged to engage with this compelling narrative that uncovers the diverse and complex origins shaping the nation we know today.
Join the exploration of “La Florida” and discover a new perspective on American origin stories that redefine our understanding of the past.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
