The Hidden History of Europe's First Colony

Portugal's first colony, the now-famous island of Madeira, came after a centuries-long battle- not with the island's inhabitants, but with the island itself.
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Further Reading:
World History: www.worldhistory.org/article/...
Brittanica: www.britannica.com/place/Made...
UNESCO - Laurisilva Forest: whc.unesco.org/en/list/934/
Laurisilva Forest: world-heritage-datasheets.unep...
1977 Plane Crash: www.newspapers.com/clip/12337...
1977 Plane Crash: www.newspapers.com/clip/12337...
Alberto João Jardim: www.nytimes.com/2011/10/04/bu...
Portugal joins EU: www.newspapers.com/clip/12337...
Mountain Villages: www.forbes.com/sites/tmullen/...
Images:
Library of Congress: www.loc.gov/item/2003674475/
Library of Congress: www.loc.gov/item/2020639344/
Black Death Art: artincontext.org/black-death-...
Archival footage: • 1930s Madeira, Portuga...
Archival footage: • FUNCHAL & MADEIRA POR...
Airport footage: • FUNCHAL EXTREME AIRPOR...
1977 Plane Crash: www.newspapers.com/clip/12337...
Maps:
www.davidrumsey.com/luna/serv...
leiden.oldmapsonline.org/maps...
www.e-rara.ch/zut/content/zoo...
www.davidrumsey.com/luna/serv...
0:00 - Intro
1:37 - Early Settlement
2:54 - Geography
5:26 - Isolation
6:54 - Tourism Rise
9:22 - Conclusion
The links above are affiliate links, from which I gain a small monetary compensation when purchases are made. They help keep the lights on ;)

[@pedrogama-escamafilms]

I'm Portuguese. I've seen many things about Madeira. Even on Portuguese television and this film was one of the best I've seen to date, from the simple message to the cinematography. It's too good. Congratulations and thank you so much for doing this. 💚💛❤

[@MJ-dj3pu]

Dude the some facts are wrong.

[@jakoblilje]

​@@MJ-dj3pu what facts are wrong?

[@MJ-dj3pu]

@@jakoblilje 1) Madeira forest is called Laurisilva, meaning bay leaf forest, and its something that also exists in the Canary archipelago, not oaks as mentioned. 2) Madeira has history of slavery or but not runaway slaves, we are not the USA. Spend a day there to see that people here are not like in the carabeans or the USA, Brasil, etc. 3) The island is so small I have personally walked across it several times through the mountains and the seashore. It may take a day but if you know where its easy. 4) We had ferries before the roads, but you need to know where the old peers where to know it. 5) People from Madeira emigrate for centuries and are open minded, is having to walk 1 hour to the next village being isolated?

[@ey3z4ya]

​@@MJ-dj3pu so confident in himself he feels the need to post the same comment multiple times 😂

[@BrianBrayMedia]

@@MJ-dj3pu Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I have learned from both the video and your comment. My plan is to visit one day. The island fascinates me.

[@inesgouveia426]

As a Madeirian, I have never thought about how the island is trying to outgrow us, but that is an incredible perspective that perfectly depicts the hardships that some people lived/ still live. The footage was incredible and this video has to be one of my favourites about this beautiful island :) Fun fact: before the island was discovered, sailors were afraid of the island as they thought this was actually a giant monster that was floating over the ocean. This had to do with the amount of fog created by the threes that made an illusion of a floating beast.

[@sungerbok]

it's a bit overly dramatic but pretty good vid overall

[@holyworrier]

Thanks for the fun fact. It is indeed fun.

[@pedropalito7117]

If you're thinking of visiting madeira keep in mind: -Avoid going off paths in the wilderness (you'll probrably fall off a cliff) -If renting a car, get used to manual driving and clutching (you'll use it alot) -The airplane is supposed to tip like that when landing ( clap at the landing, everyone does that for some reason) -Do not do levadas at night or afternoon unless you're absolutely sure what you're doing as there are zones that do not have cell coverage, nor emergency dial capabilities, -If you're taking a cab/taxi (uber isn't allowed in madeira), keep the gps on and make sure to ask the driver if you're going to the right place (they usually take a slightly longer route to cash more money) -Do not be afraid to ask for directions or help to locals, most of us (that are under 50 years old) know enough english to explain it to you - Have fun :) any other tips be sure to comment below ;)

[@Guilherme-nc5li]

Do the azores next! The isolation and wilderness you feel on some of the islands is overwhelming. There is also rich history including tough colonization and even piracy

[@diogodinis39]

Great video! As a madeiran it's awesome to watch such videos about our special island. Just a slight correction: The arquipelago of Madeira consists of: Madeira Island, Porto Santo Island, Desertas Islands and Selvagens Islands.

[@purawskis]

I'm not madeiran, just someone who fell in love with this island more than 10 years ago, but I was always under impression that Selvagens Islands form a separate archipelago (and is only administered by Madeira region).

[@sergiocecilio5938]

I'm Portuguese and this short documentary about one of Portugal's most wonderful places is absolutely inspiring. Thank you!

[@Steph_davis]

I had to watch it twice because the first time I couldn't listen to the story, I was too blown away by the cinematography. And then the story, the history...so interesting. Beautiful work as usual

[@MJ-dj3pu]

The history has several wrong facts.

[@Steph_davis]

@@MJ-dj3pu good to know my dude

[@firstname405]

@@xunqianbaidu6917 ​ don't worry about MJ, he admits he is wrong in other comment threads. Just got a bit too excited about his beautiful home island being on youtube XD

[@MannyRataul]

The drone shots, the color grading, and the historical content, just absolutely amazing!

[@stayclassyvlog]

What a beautifully packaged video in every aspect. We've lived on Madeira Island for the last two years and this makes me want to go much deeper into the history of this incredible place. What we see is just the surface of a web of stories that need to be told! Subbed!

[@BelaMadeira]

My two favourite local KZbinrs, love your channel! ❤

[@motttta]

🧡

[@justmyway508]

You have quickly became one of my top channels to watch for sure. The quality of your content is hard to find anywhere else. Amazing footage lately man, so so sooo glad I came across your videos and channel when I did. Take care man and again, well done, well freaking done man...

[@tovarishchmartins4999]

This made me want to go visit Madeira more than the actual turist advertisements. I'm from Portugal. You really did a good job exploring the history of the island, which is becoming more and more easy to miss because of tourism, but it is so interesting and fascinating. Thank you!

[@sneakingelephant]

Canadian here, and Madeira was one of my favourite places I’ve ever visited. It’s so peaceful, the locals in the various villages are very welcoming and the air feels fresh everywhere. Also the roads are some of the best roads I’ve ever driven on. The drivers are very accommodating on the road and follow the rules

[@goncalopereira5165]

I'm from Madeira, and you did a wonderful job showing the evolution and history of the island. I'm grateful for that!

[@TheCreativeNick]

Your sound design is incredibly underrated and I'm surprised no one is talking about it. The idea that good sound design is invisible really is true!

[@tdf1295]

You did Madeirans proud, congratulations... beautiful Cruizinhas bridge! Miss home so much! 😢

[@UziPeak]

I'm amazed this man has only 336k subs. The quality is absolutely brilliant. A gem of a channel hope this man gets the recognition he deserves

[@scott135]

As an occasional visitor I've watched Madeira change over the last 30+ years, but never have I been so affected by a video of such quality and thoughtfulness. A wonderful achievement, and so very atmospheric. Thank you for producing a brilliant, cinematic-quality film describing a true gem of an island so perfectly.

[@SyncJr]

Fantastic drone footage. Can’t believe the best video about Madeira is made by a foreigner. Amazing video!

[@MrSilviofreitas]

Embora com alguns erros, nomeadamente o da data de entrada na CEE, está muito bom. Para um estrangeiro que visitou a ilha, o vídeo está excelente. É um documento muito interessante para qualquer turista que queira visitar a Madeira.

[@daveythecowboy4201]

I’m a 4th gen American,my family is Madeiran, I’ve wanted to go to Madeira for years now. It looks absolutely gorgeous and I’m an avid mountaineer so I hope it would provide a challenge

[@joanaaraujo204]

As a Madeiran, thank you for this video. Our island is so beautiful and mystical - and there's always something new to learn from it

[@germanspartan2659]

I'm honestly surprised Netflix hasn't came to you yet to do documentaries, you're videos are so interesting and filled with information I never knew about.

[@colterino]

I sailed there from Holland. 1987. Before sailing to the Caribbean Spent a few days. Drove all over. Absolutely spectacular. Churchill loved it. Best chessnuts I ever had in my life down in the Port. Lovely video. Thank you ❤

[@Sammy93942]

The sheer craftsmanship and effort that is put into your videos is simply astonoshing! Nothing quite compares to the amazing way you visually tell these supremely interesting stories Aidin. It truly inspires me to stay curious about our own backyard, and I hope you get as much joy out of what you create as us viewers get from watching your content.

[@vitordavid6086]

Great Video, i am portuguese and been to Madeira a few times, saw lots of videos and this is probably the best. Kudus!

[@ventura3868]

man im portuguese and i loved your video, the quality was crazy. good job keep up the good work!

[@AidinRobbins]

So glad to hear that!

[@kaiwan]

This video is a true masterpiece! The captivating storytelling and stunning visuals all work together to create an immersive experience.

[@glady3166]

Those are some unreal shots; feel the dedication! Awesome work and storytelling

[@siddharthsamant4072]

Love it how Aidin is moving from making cinematic videos and tutorials to making informative groundbreaking cinema work! Have been a fan since 3k subs. Long way to go!

[@christianwestling2019]

Beautiful video! Reminder that I have to go to Madeira & the Azores. I've been to Iceland & The Faroe Islands, time to go south.

[@adambrown2140]

This is an absolutely amazing video. I am in Madeira visiting right now and wow, this video hits. I cannot believe it only has 165k views:( This deserves millions. The videography, editing, narration, education, history. Man top-notch work, I was wishing the video would never end!

[@JacksonGroves]

One of the best videos of Madeira I've ever watched!

[@cheezygui5803]

finally a video that focuses on the history of my home, I've researched a bit but watching it like this is so much better

[@JamesPuente]

Beautifully designed, shot, edited, narrated. Just excellent, Aidin!

[@othernomad]

Just arrived on the island 2 days ago and was completely blown away by the infrastructure. I mean it’s a marvel considering the landscape. Day 3 tomorrow. Can’t wait to see more

[@TorQueHQ]

You got 2 things wrong, not everyone liked Alberto João jardim neither is Madeira one of the richest Portugal places. They make you see that people here is living rich life but instead, tourism life the rich life, not residents.

[@mirandagarcia7872]

I hope you never stop making videos

[@Chris1LFC]

I am currently in Madeira and it is blowing my mind. The coastline is like nothing I've ever seen before..

[@BelaMadeira]

Madeiran here. The cinematography and all-round production quality of this “mini documentary” is on another level, well done! 👏🏻

[@arcceus]

jesus christ the cinematography editing literally everything is just mind blowing

[@quest_edward]

Excellent video. I'm from Rio, live in Estoril (Portugal) and love Madeira. It's a magic place.

[@franciscovillalobos6452]

great video about this amazing island. I'm from Madeira and the only thing that I would like to state is that you forgot about the "Selvagens" Islands. this small pack of islands are also part of Madeira. Also, the vulcanic activity in madeira is not awoke. But that's it. It was an incredible video and thank you for giving people the opportunity to see Madeira with different eyes

[@Jonnyrosales]

Well done! As Portuguese, I'm greatfull for this video. Keep following your passion!

[@TheYeti37]

My grandma moved to California from Madeira when she was 16. I want to visit it so bad one day. See where we’re from.

[@ZeroBr_yt]

Just wanna let ya know u should keep this up! ur videos are getting bigger and much better! also I'm not used to seeing videos like this on recommended at ALL, but still I see urs. Dont stop bro. Not only is the algorithm on your side, but so am I!

[@iaf_fnd]

Well, this is your best one yet! This actually feels like a small revolution, or at least a fresh breath for the social media filmmaking content. This format is absolutely amazing, and especially with this video. The music is beautiful, the storm effects at the begining creates a real vibe and the story you're telling is just so interesting. I've read articles about Madeira before travelling there back in october 2021. I didn't felt like it was very popular at that time. But things have changed. Hopefully this unique island will still be protected (especially Fanal). It's really an experience discovering these biomes and going from the peaks of the center to the wet forest with trails like the PR6 source of the 25 levadas. I'm glad you got to go there and create such a video!

[@IAF1900]

+ little fun fact : The actual airport of Madeira is one of the hardest to land in in the world ^^

[@julien_correia]

as a portuguese i loved soo much everything u said in this video and i m amazed by the editing , quite good asf, hug from portugal

[@mag9792]

Despite the hundreds if not thousands of videos showcasing Madeira on KZbin this literally tops them all, the cinematography and information is second to none. A lot of the time the history and geography of Madeira is overlooked but what an insight here!

[@nunorodrigues7394]

I can't imagine you were here. I follow your work. Thanks for another great video. Hope you came back here again.

[@videoharry_]

Aidin, I’ve been following your photography on Instagram for years now and somehow I had no idea about your KZbin (I suppose I’m not that active), now you inspire me in countless ways. Thank you and keep at it✌️

[@TagusMan]

If you like driving and the challenge of old, steep, narrow roads, then Portugal 🇵🇹 is a driver's paradise, especially the islands of Madeira and the Azores. All the new tunnels on Madeira are making some of those old roads obsolete and with them, the views. There are no views to discover in a tunnel. The price of progress.

[@LimPu]

Okay the colour scheme you have chosen is truly something else. Wow.

[@davidburchettephotography6513]

Another outrageously good video. You have grown so much in your talent and skill. Keep it up!

[@zakit]

Thanks for the great looking and well made video. There's some small facts to polish. Just a few of them: - The archipelago also comprises the Selvagens archipelago. A group of 3 islands further south, halfway to the Canary Islands. - The insane rhythm of public investment on infrastructure solved some issues but also created others, like economy dependance on it and that lead to absurd projects or at least doubtful use, with the topping being that many are not made to last and planning for maintenance of all these projects was never in the scope. They're cementing paradise to make a parking lot, just like the Goo Goo Dolls song. - If the measure of wealth you used to state that Madeira is the 2nd most wealthy region of Portugal was GDP, that is flawed. Madeira's GDP is probably 3rd nation wide but only because it has an offshore like model, in which many foreign companies like Swatch and many others use to pay less taxes. The money runs through Madeira but only some low percentage of taxes stays. Taking that out of the equation the real Madeira is far from the top in the wealth list. Life in the island has been very hard for those who settled. And still is. Attention from foreign pensioners and alike are driving the real estate sector to 2x or 3x plus normal prices. Criminality is getting abnormally high at Funchal, and sometimes violent during the night. Even without the cinematography looks, it's very pretty and adventurous place. It's never boring for the explorer mind set. And still is a great place, nonetheless.

[@KashifPatha9]

Man the quality of this video is the best i have ever seen on a KZbin video its truly amazing..keep it up.

[@edgomes229]

Love this video. Literally it make me cry. I've born in the mix of the ancient and new Madeira. I understand what was before and what is now. Today is important to remember our ancestors that "fought" a difficult life, and today we have a better life. I remember my grandmother working in the "fazenda" to plant and grow something to eat and the stories that my parents told me about not starving but things was difficult. Just a correction Madeira archipelago have 8 islands, 3 islands of desertas, 3 islands of selvagens, Madeira and Porto Santo.

[@shikhasarkar5412]

your cinematography is chef kiss

[@Hrvod]

Congratulations. You have made me (a portuguese) to make me want visit Madeira (even more). Awesome video btw. Histories i didnt even know. Been following you for a few years and your improvement is actually pretty significant. Well done. Congratulations.

[@MJ-dj3pu]

Im from Madeira, the images are nice, but the guy thinks Laurisilva are is full of oaks, the clue is in the name. Also mentions that Madeira was built by runaways slaves, which is just wrong.

[@AidinRobbins]

Old growth. Not oak. old

[@MJ-dj3pu]

@@AidinRobbins Fair enough. How about the slaves and people running away from religious prosecution where do you get that from?

[@galterius4793]

@@MJ-dj3pu he said that some of the small and isolated villages were built by these people, not the whole island

[@MJ-dj3pu]

@@galterius4793 There are no historic records of that, in a big or small scale any where in the island. Half of my family comes from the zone in the north this guy filmed, Sao Vicente, Seixal and Porto Moniz, and we live here for a few generations, there isnt anyone else here besides portuguese and catholics for ages.

[@kaywayneflor89]

Thank you so much for your hard work, the story was excellent! When one of our videos comes up in my feed, I wait till I come home so that I can cast it to my 50" screen living room tv, the quilty deserves no less. Thank you again.

[@rodrigo0133]

I live in Madeira, and many of these things I didn't even know, incredible! thx! ❤

[@sirvladislav]

We are going to Madeira in 12 days and that's a perfect video to watch and feel just a bit a history and the atmosphere of this land

[@sitiesito715]

PBS should hire you to create documentary series about whatever you want. I'll watch for sure.

[@neufxl]

Madeiran-proud here. So many videos, shots, texts, posts, you name it!, I’ve seen but this video… thank you! Beautiful images and yes, the island sometimes fights back but we are so committed to live in this little corner of heaven (on Earth)!

[@ericfielding2540]

Great documentary with the long-term and recent history of Madeira interwoven with outstanding videography. The drone video is excellent.

[@StianSivertsens]

Great work on this, Aidin!

[@kappios78]

this channel probably has the best cinematography and storytelling on the website right now. it's insane

[@badeta]

Hey man. I'm Portuguese (from continent) and I really love this video. Not to much time, very well produced and shows a different perspective of Madeira. congrats man, this is real content!! you definitely got a new subscriber!

[@wukerplank]

Impressive footage! For those who are interested: There is not that much rain, the water running through the levadas is captured by the erica plants. The plants capture the small water drops in the fog and the clouds with their fine leafs. They are mentioned briefly, but I think they deserve a lot more attention: The levadas, old roads and the old wealth was built by slaves. A fact that conveniently gets omitted by guides and historic exhibitions.

[@pedrospinola679]

Amazing quality, i am mindblown by how much good footage you packed into here.

[@mglmenezes]

The cinematography and editing is top pro. A true joy to watch it.

[@CanoeCampClimb]

Awesome as always Aidin. Thanks for taking me to a place I won't likely ever get to see.

[@RoccoGermani]

What an awesome video Aidin! I can tell that tons of effort went into this, your footage is always amazing and your storytelling just gets better and better!

[@Ayeshteni]

Scottish guy here. I've been to Madeira and fell in love with the place. I've been to a fair few places around the world, but I think I left a piece of my heart on this island.

[@Cherb123456]

Thank you!

[@andre_dias]

Wow didnt expect this. I'm also another portuguese that follows your channel and its great to have such a good youtuber as you. Sick content I hope you enjoyed your staying!! 💪💪

[@jackslead]

Just stumbled across your channel this morning and have binged a few videos. Fantastic work. You can see how much effort goes into each video. Keep it up, amazing stuff

[@jampaPT]

God damn man! One of the most beautiful videos I have ever seen on KZbin. As a Portuguese guy (albeit from the mainland), I am very proud to hear someone speak with such reverence about our islands. As someone who is beginning the path of a videographer...wow, what a production. Congratulations!

[@owenmartinkendall]

Absolutely beautiful shots and a great story

[@Cachicochip]

Your footage is absurdly superb! Goosebumps throughout the whole video!! Great work.

[@KennyRider24]

These Videos deliver so much value. Absolutely love everything about it - learning something interesting while watching beautiful shots!

[@HappyVLR]

this is just beautiful

[@Dinizshortfilmmaker]

I'm from Madeira and this video was amazing! Thank you for coming here and tell this story, this is the best video about our island that I've seen!

[@enchergas]

Wow ✨ thank you for this 🧡

[@wm_films]

My grandma is from Madeira and this is the first time I actually saw something about. Amazing place showcased by incredible footage and story. Great video as always Aidin!

[@WillieHustles]

Beautiful video as always, narratively and cinematically!

[@stanleylawson9015]

love this format

[@malachaiuys711]

*Wow. The beauty is breathtaking.*

[@bill8125]

Wow! Awesome footage and history!

[@jdavevisuals]

I love how you share these stories

[@AetherXIV]

beautiful visuals

[@thisangalithmin]

YOU always discover hidden world and share with us bro continue your work .we are with you🤙

[@bardomeister]

Best 'travel' video I've seen about Madeira!! The depth of you storytelling is insane... keeps me hooked every time 🙏

[@danielleoliver1734]

Such a stunning location

[@maximilliankoopman]

Awesome work!! I am going here in May with my friends and this just fired me up even more. Keep it up!

[@DerGoProHero]

The stories you tell and how you tell them is incredible! Your cinematography and the music make your storytelling so great to watch! Keep up the amazing work! This was the second video I watched on your channel and i can't wait to watch the rest!

[@c0gimyun]

what a stunning production and an incredible story!

[@jakoblilje]

you and your work have become such a role model for me

[@rajpassy4154]

So wonderfully made Aidin! I've been a number of times and everything you see about the island is very surface level - your film makes me a feel a deeper connection to why the island exists in it's form today. Thank you for educating us, but also doing it SO freaking beautifully in film form!

[@emanuellsmith1944]

Congratulations on a film well done Aidin. The message, texture, cinematography, pasted, voiceovers all fantastic.

[@diannehamilton4611]

This was so helpful to me, after spending two months here recently. I will watch it again. Thank you!