The indigenous Carib people inhabited Grenada when Christopher Columbus landed on the island in 1498, but it remained uncolonized for more than a century. In the 17th century, the French settled Grenada, establishing sugar estates and importing large numbers of African slaves. Britain took control of the island in 1762 and significantly expanded sugar production. However, by the 19th century, cacao had surpassed sugar as the main export crop, and in the 20th century, nutmeg became the leading export.

In 1967, Britain granted Grenada autonomy over its internal affairs. Full independence was achieved in 1974, making Grenada one of the smallest independent countries in the Western Hemisphere. In 1979, the leftist New Jewel Movement, led by Maurice Bishop, seized power, initiating the Grenada Revolution. However, factionalism within the revolutionary government led to Bishop's overthrow and subsequent death on October 19, 1983.

Six days later, US forces, along with those of six other Caribbean nations, intervened, swiftly capturing the ringleaders and their hundreds of Cuban advisers. Rule of law was restored, and democratic elections were reinstated the following year, which have continued since then.