The recorded history of Seychelles dates back to the 16th century. The islands were appropriated and settled by France in the 18th century. Native Africans were already settled to the island, and the characteristic Seychellois Creole language developed. Britain took possession of the islands in the early 19th century. The Seychelles became an independent republic in 1976. A socialist one-party state ruled the country from 1977 to 1993. The subsequent democratic elections were won by the same socialist party.