How the environment shaped perception of Florida?

Florida's environment has been one of the highest driving forces for colonization. I mean the land maybe treacherous which is obvious from the saw grass and the wildlife, but with it's climate and rich soil the land proved to have endless possibilities. Mostly though there just seemed to be an endless supply. Florida is always seen as a land that can be used and molded to fit the interests of the settlers. It could be farm land, hold cattle, homes, business, and just in general people. We just had to mold it correctly was the thought process. But outsiders will always think of Florida has a land with wildlife in a warm climate with beaches and warm waters. We are almost considered a part of the Caribbean with how deeply our tip plunges into the gulf. We are an oasis that's still part of home to everyone in other states of the U.S. Then there is our everglades which no one else can rival in splendor and beauty it has been dramatized many times in many ways through media, culture, art, song, and writing. We still even find it on TV. We are presented as a civilized wilderness. Without our Everglades I truly believe Florida would not be such an attraction until this day. Our environment makes up the entirety of our perception of Florida.