Transfer Day

Transfer Day

Transfer Day is a significant event in the history of the United States Virgin Islands, marking the transfer of the islands from Danish to American control. This event took place on March 31, 1917, and is commemorated annually in the Virgin Islands.

Historical Background

The United States Virgin Islands, comprising the main islands of Saint Thomas, Saint John, and Saint Croix, were originally part of the Danish West Indies. The islands were colonized by Denmark in the 17th century and remained under Danish control for over 250 years.

Danish West Indies

The Danish West Indies were primarily used for sugar cane plantations, which relied heavily on enslaved African labor. The abolition of slavery in 1848 led to significant economic changes and challenges for the islands.

Strategic Importance

During the early 20th century, the strategic importance of the Caribbean increased, particularly during World War I. The United States, concerned about the possibility of German expansion in the Caribbean, sought to acquire the islands to secure their position in the region.

The Transfer

The transfer of the islands was formalized through the Treaty of the Danish West Indies, signed on August 4, 1916. The United States agreed to purchase the islands for $25 million in gold.

Transfer Ceremony

On March 31, 1917, the official transfer ceremony took place. Danish and American officials gathered in Charlotte Amalie, the capital of Saint Thomas, to witness the lowering of the Danish flag and the raising of the American flag. This marked the official change of sovereignty.

Impact on the Islands

The transfer had significant implications for the inhabitants of the islands. Initially, the islands were administered by the U.S. Navy, which led to various changes in governance and infrastructure.

Citizenship and Governance

Inhabitants of the islands were granted U.S. citizenship in 1927, a decade after the transfer. The islands were later granted a degree of self-governance, with the establishment of the Virgin Islands Legislature in 1954.

Commemoration

Transfer Day is celebrated annually in the Virgin Islands with various events and activities. It serves as a reminder of the islands' complex colonial history and their transition to becoming a part of the United States.

Also see

• Danish West Indies
• United States Virgin Islands
• History of the United States Virgin Islands
• Treaty of the Danish West Indies