Florida's history began with the arrival of Native American tribes, such as the Seminole and Timucua, who inhabited the region for thousands of years. In 1513, Juan Ponce de León became the first European to explore Florida, claiming it for Spain. Over the centuries, Florida changed hands between Spain, France, and Britain before becoming a U.S. territory in 1821. In 1845, Florida was admitted as the 27th state. The state played a significant role in the Civil War, aligning with the Confederacy. Throughout the 20th century, Florida experienced rapid growth, becoming a popular destination for tourism and retirees, known for its beaches and warm climate.