Short History
In 1492 Puerto Rico was discovered by Christopher Columbus. The island was populated by theTaino indians. In the 1500's there was a Spanish Invasion and the Taino indians were ordered to search for gold in the rivers and streams of El Yunque. Later on the United States invaded the Island and Puerto Rico became US territory when the Treaty of Paris was signed. El Yunque became a Federal Reserve and it was the only Tropical Rain Forest in the US territory. Later in the 1930's President Roosevelt established the New Deal Plan in order to develop roads, paths, towers, stairs, etc. in El Yunque. Today El Yunque is a beautiful Rain Forest with many different plant and animal.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/06/CristobalColon.jpg Christopher Columbus 
Dated Facts of El Yunque
1876- The Spanish Crown proclaims El Yunque and other areas of El Yunque as forest reserve.
1903- President Roosevelt designates the Luquillo Forest Reserve.
1931- The first forest plantations are planted. (Mahagony)
1935- The name is changed into the Carribean Natural Forest.
1937- CCC starts expensive work on reforestation, road, and recreational facilities construction.
1939- Tropical Forest Experimentation established.
1946- Forest designated as wildlife refugee.
1956- Entire forest designated "Luquillo Experimental Forest" in recognition of the growing research importance.
1968- Conservation efforts began for the Puerto Rican Parrot.
1976- El Yunque National Forest is designated a Biosphere Reserve.
1989- Hurricane Hugo causes major damage to the forest.
1992- International Forestry established, enhancing international cooperation and laboration.
1996- El Portal Tropical Center opens, continuing a tradition of education, outreach, and public service.
1998- Hurrican Georges causes major damage to the forest.
