Pensacola's history is long and storied. Known as the "City of Five Flags", Pensacola has actually changed hands 17 times between the French, Spanish, British, Confederate and U.S in its more than 400 years of written history. The legacy each leave along with the Native Americans who were thought to have lived in the area for more than 10,000 years, is evident in the street names, architecture, creeks, rivers and even the residents. The Seville Square Historical District is a fine way to explore the area's past. Pensacola's fine port and natural harbor have been an integral part of the area's economy for centuries. Timber and seafood were the early mainstays of the area economy and later the military and tourism emerged to the forefront. The areas beaches were largely undeveloped for decades until modern bridges made them accessible by automobile. One of the most important Pensacolian's whose legacy will be enjoyed by millions to come is newspaper editor, Earle Bowden, who tirelessly lobbied for creation of the National Seashore which went into law in 1972. Today as development nears saturation, there are miles and miles of protected seashore to be enjoyed forever.