Equatorial Guinea

The island of Bioko (formerly Fernando Po) was sighted by Fernão do Pó, probably in 1472. At first it was called Formosa (Beautiful). Annobón was probably sighted by Ruy de Sequeira on a New Year's Day (hence the name, which means “good year”) between 1472 and 1475, most likely that of 1474. By the Treaty of Tordesillas (June 7, 1494), the Portuguese had exclusive rights in Africa, and it was not until 1778 that they