Parts of The Gambia came under the rule of the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia

Between 1651 and 1661, parts of The Gambia, specifically St. Andrew's Island and St. Mary Island (now known as Banjul), came under the control of the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia. This duchy was a vassal state of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, located in present-day Latvia. The acquisition of these territories was orchestrated by Prince Jacob Kettler, who sought to expand his influence and establish a foothold in West Africa. During this period, significant structures such as Fort Jakob and Fort Jillifree were established to fortify the duchy's presence in the region. However, this colonial venture was relatively short-lived, as the territories were formally ceded to England in 1664. This historical episode highlights the complex interplay of European powers in Africa during the 17th century and the often-overlooked role of smaller states like Courland in the colonial narrative. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #DuchyOfCourland #TheGambiaHistory #Colonialism #PrinceJacobKettler #FortJakob