History Of Newfoundland
Ministry of Culture & Communications and Defence & National Security
History of Newfoundland
From longstanding Indigenous presence and early European contact to a modern sovereign republic — the story of Newfoundland’s journey to independence and self-determination.
A Nation’s Story
The Republic of Newfoundland’s history is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to self-governance. From the fishing stations of the 16th century and the deep roots of Indigenous communities, including the Mi’kmaq of Newfoundland, to a modern democratic republic, Newfoundland has charted its own course through centuries of challenge and triumph.
This collection of historical documents, issued by the Ministry of Culture & Communications and the Ministry of Defence & National Security, chronicles the key periods and turning points that shaped our nation.
Historical Timeline
Founding and Early Settlement
From John Cabot’s landfall and sustained Indigenous presence to the establishment of permanent European communities and the emergence of a distinct Newfoundland identity.
The Age of Self-Government
The achievement of representative and responsible government, and the path toward recognition as a self-governing Dominion within the British Empire.
The Dominion of Newfoundland
Recognition as an equal Dominion, control over defence, foreign affairs, trade, customs, and currency, participation in the First World War, and the challenges of the interwar period.
War and Transition
The Commission of Government, Newfoundland’s continued legal separateness from Canada, the transformative impact of the Second World War, and debates over Newfoundland’s constitutional future.
The Republic Reborn
Restoration of elected Dominion self-government, Newfoundland’s role as a founding member of NATO in 1949, and the peaceful path toward full republican status.
Maritime Sovereignty and the Fishing Wars
Establishment of the Republic of Newfoundland, assertion of maritime jurisdiction, confrontation with foreign fishing fleets, and defence of sovereign rights over offshore resources.
Modernization and the Technological Age
Transition to a diversified, knowledge-based economy, development of high-tech and ocean-focused industries, and emergence as a North Atlantic innovation hub grounded in a maritime small-state identity.
The Republic Today and Tomorrow
A confident, mature democracy looking toward the future while honouring its past and the contributions of all its peoples, including Indigenous communities.
Historical Documents
Explore our complete historical series — each document provides detailed accounts of the Republic’s development through key periods:
PART I
1497 – 1829
Founding and Early Settlement — From Cabot’s arrival and early Indigenous–European encounters to the establishment of representative institutions.
PART II
1832 – 1907
The Age of Self-Government — The achievement of responsible government and the consolidation of democratic institutions.
PART III
1907 – 1934
The Dominion of Newfoundland — Recognition as an equal Dominion, control over external affairs, and the First World War.
PART IV
1934 – 1949
War and Transition — Commission government, the Second World War, and the path toward renewed self-government.
PART V
1949 – 1972
The Republic Reborn — Restoration of democracy, founding membership in NATO in 1949, and the peaceful transition to a republican constitution.
PART VI
1972 – 1988
Maritime Sovereignty and the Fishing Wars — Asserting and enforcing Newfoundland’s maritime rights and offshore jurisdiction.
PART VII
1980 – 2025
Modernization and the Technological Age — Transition to a knowledge economy and innovation society grounded in a maritime small-state identity.
PART VIII
2025 – Beyond
The Republic Today and Tomorrow — A mature sovereign nation looking to the future.
Archives and Research
The National Archives of Newfoundland, located in St. John’s, houses the nation’s documentary heritage including government records, private papers, photographs, and maps dating from 1497 to the present.
- National Archives: Scheduled visits available Monday–Friday, 09:00–16:30
- Research Inquiries: archives@republicofnewfoundland.com
- Educational Programs: School programs and guided tours available
- Digital Collections: Selected materials available online
Contact
Ministry of Culture & Communications and Ministry of Defence & National Security
Historical Services Division
Fort Hadow, St. John’s, Newfoundland
Email: heritage@republicofnewfoundland.com
Phone: +1-709-555-7100
This page is maintained by the Ministry of Culture & Communications and the Ministry of Defence & National Security.