In 1670, Spain signed the Treaty of Madrid with England giving the latter ownership of the Caribbean Islands. This gave Jamaica governmental control over the Cayman Islands. In 1962, when Jamaica declared its independence, the Cayman Islands became a British Crown Colony. 19 years later, their status changed to a British Dependent Territory and now they are the largest of the 14 British Overseas Territories. The Queen of the United Kingdom maintains authority but appoints a governor who, along with a premier and 20 legislators, manages the local government. Since 1972, they have meet in this Legislative Assembly building.
