The Florida Keys are a narrow archipelago formed by ancient coral reefs and limestone.  The surrounding ocean defines them and the people who live in the Keys must tie their livelihood to the water in order to survive.

The Keys lie in the shipping lanes between the Americas and Europe.  Because of this, early explorers and merchants all sailed through the Straits of Florida, just south of present-day Key West, and many met their doom on the perilous reefs. 

The sight of Spanish galleons laden with treasure brought predators—pirates who eked out an existence on the ocean and occasionally struck it rich when they captured a valuable cargo.

During the 19^th century, the shipping route became so busy that “wrecking” became an industry—saving the crew, passengers, and cargos of foundered ships.

Today, locals and tourists alike delight in the warm waters and sun-filled days.  Salvagers, like Mel Fisher, have made their fortunes retrieving ancient shipwrecks; fishermen delight in the local catch; and visitors snorkel or dive just to observe the wonders of the reef.