Several Bajoran colonies were established on planets both within and outside of the Bajoran system as early as the turn of the 24th century. (DS9: "Time's Orphan") Many of the colonies were established by refugees fleeing the Occupation of their homeworld by the Cardassians. (TNG: "Ensign Ro") In 2370, New Bajor was established as one of the first Bajoran colonies in the Gamma Quadrant. (DS9: "Crossover") It was destroyed later that year by the Jem'Hadar. (DS9: "The Jem'Hadar")
In 2371, Major Kira Nerys and Chief Miles O'Brien conducted an inspection tour of the Bajoran colonies located along the Cardassian border. The closest of the colonies to the border was Prophet's Landing. (DS9: "Sons of Mogh", "Heart of Stone") Later that year, the USS Defiant drove away Breen privateers that were threatening the Bajoran colony of Free Haven. (DS9: "To the Death")