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The early years of St. Augustine were marked by its role as a fortified city, complete with surrounding walls and military installations such as Fort St. Marcos and Fort Caroline. This period saw the Spanish engaged in conflicts with French settlers and later on, English pirates, each vying for control of the lucrative new lands. Over time, the indigenous inhabitants of the area expressed initial hospitality to the Spaniards, welcoming them into their domed homes, which were said to have been impressively constructed.