The Colony of Hispaniola was one of the first European settlements in the Americas, established by the Spanish in the late 15th century. It is located on the island of Hispaniola, which is shared by the modern-day countries of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The colony served as a base for further exploration and colonization in the Caribbean. Initially, the colony thrived on agriculture and the exploitation of indigenous peoples, particularly the Taíno. Over time, the population declined due to disease and harsh labor conditions. By the 17th century, other European powers, including the French and British, began to establish their own colonies on the island.