Mauritius Colonial Records

Dutch Colonization (1638-1710)
In 1638, the Dutch established a settlement in Mauritius. The Dutch abandoned Mauritius in 1710.

French Colonization (1715-1810)
France took control of Mauritius in 1715 and renamed it the Isle de France. Except for a short time during the French Revolution, the Isle de France was governed by officials appointed by the French government. During the Napoleonic Wars, the Isle de France surrendered to the British.

British Colonization and Independence (1810-1992)
Great Britain gained control of the Isle de France during the Napoleonic Wars in 1810, and changed the name back to Mauritius. In 1968, Mauritius gained Independence, although Queen Elizabeth II remained the head of state as Queen of Mauritius. In 1992, Mauritius became a republic in the Commonwealth of Nations.