Saint Barthélemy, commonly known as St. Barts, is a small French overseas collectivity located in the Caribbean Sea. Originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples, the island was claimed by France in 1648 before being taken by Sweden in 1784, a period that left a lasting Scandinavian influence on its culture and place names. In 1878, Saint Barthélemy was sold back to France, becoming administratively attached to Guadeloupe, though it maintained a unique local identity. In 2007, it gained the special status of a French overseas collectivity, granting it greater autonomy. Today, St. Barts is renowned for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant blend of French and Swedish heritage, attracting visitors from around the world to its sun-soaked shores.