The United States owns several islands, but the most notable is Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island and unincorporated U.S. territory. While not a state, Puerto Rico holds a unique status, with its residents being U.S. citizens and the island governed by both local and federal laws.
What Islands Are Owned by the USA?
The United States owns a variety of islands across the globe, each with distinct characteristics and governance structures. These islands are either territories or part of a state. Here’s a closer look at some of the key islands under U.S. ownership:
1. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico, located in the Caribbean Sea, is the most populous U.S. territory. It has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its indigenous Taino roots and Spanish colonial history. The island’s economy relies heavily on manufacturing, particularly pharmaceuticals, and tourism.
2. U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands consist of three main islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. Purchased from Denmark in 1917, these islands are known for their beautiful beaches and vibrant tourism industry. Residents are U.S. citizens but cannot vote in presidential elections.
3. Guam
Located in the Western Pacific, Guam is a strategically important territory for the U.S. military. It is the largest and southernmost island in the Mariana Islands archipelago. Guam’s economy is driven by tourism, especially from Japan, and military spending.
4. American Samoa
American Samoa is the only U.S. territory located in the Southern Hemisphere. It consists of five main islands and two coral atolls. Unlike other U.S. territories, its residents are U.S. nationals, not citizens, meaning they have certain limitations on their rights.
5. Northern Mariana Islands
The Northern Mariana Islands are a group of 14 islands in the Pacific Ocean. They have a unique political relationship with the U.S. as a commonwealth, similar to Puerto Rico. Saipan, the largest island, is a popular tourist destination.
6. Other U.S.-Owned Islands
In addition to these territories, the U.S. owns several small, uninhabited islands, primarily used for wildlife refuges or military purposes. These include:
- Wake Island: A strategic military base.
- Midway Atoll: Known for its role in World War II.
- Johnston Atoll: Formerly used for nuclear testing.
Why Does the U.S. Own These Islands?
The ownership of these islands stems from various historical events and strategic interests. Many were acquired through treaties, purchases, or military actions. For example, the U.S. acquired Puerto Rico following the Spanish-American War in 1898, while Guam was ceded by Spain in the same treaty.
Strategic and Economic Importance
- Military Bases: Islands like Guam and Wake Island are crucial for U.S. military operations in the Pacific.
- Economic Resources: Territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands contribute to the U.S. economy through tourism and manufacturing.
Cultural and Political Ties
- Cultural Diversity: These islands add to the cultural richness of the U.S. with their unique traditions and histories.
- Political Representation: While residents of these territories cannot vote in presidential elections, they have non-voting representatives in Congress.
People Also Ask
What Is the Status of Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States. Its residents are U.S. citizens but do not have voting representation in Congress. The island has its own constitution and local government but is subject to federal laws.
Can Residents of U.S. Territories Vote in U.S. Elections?
Residents of U.S. territories cannot vote in presidential elections. However, they can participate in party primaries and have non-voting delegates in the House of Representatives.
How Did the U.S. Acquire These Islands?
The U.S. acquired many of its territories through treaties, purchases, and military actions. For example, the Treaty of Paris (1898) ended the Spanish-American War and ceded Puerto Rico and Guam to the U.S.
Are There Any U.S. Territories in the Pacific?
Yes, the U.S. owns several territories in the Pacific, including Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands. These islands play crucial roles in military strategy and regional diplomacy.
What Are the Economic Activities on U.S.-Owned Islands?
Economic activities vary by island. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands rely on tourism and manufacturing, Guam benefits from military spending, and American Samoa focuses on tuna processing and canning.
Conclusion
The United States’ ownership of various islands around the world is a testament to its historical expansion and strategic interests. From the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico to the military significance of Guam, these islands contribute to the nation’s diversity and global presence. Understanding the unique status and contributions of each territory helps highlight the complex relationship between these islands and the mainland U.S. For more information on U.S. territories, consider exploring U.S. Territories and Their Governance.
