From Puerto Rico’s Vibrant Culture to Midway Atoll’s Unique Wildlife: Explore These Islands of America
While most people are familiar with the 50 states that make up the United States, many need to be made aware of the islands that are also part of America.
From tropical paradises in the Caribbean to uninhabited coral islands in the Pacific, these territories offer unique cultural experiences, stunning natural beauty, and significant contributions to the United States.
In this roundup, we’ll explore 10 of the most amazing islands of America, each with its distinct history, traditions, and attractions.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a new adventure, these island destinations will surely leave you unforgettable memories.
Here’s 10 Islands of America:
- Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory in the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. This is one of two islands of America in the Caribbean, and it is home to El Yunque National Forest, a tropical rainforest with waterfalls, hiking trails, and unique flora and fauna.
- U.S. Virgin Islands: The U.S. Virgin Islands are located in the Caribbean Sea, just east of Puerto Rico. They consist of three main islands – St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas – and several smaller islands. The islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- American Samoa: American Samoa is another unincorporated territory of the United States in the South Pacific Ocean. The island is home to stunning natural beauty, including tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and coral reefs. The Samoan culture is also vibrant, with traditional crafts, music, and dance.
- Northern Mariana Islands: The Northern Mariana Islands are a commonwealth of the United States located in the western Pacific Ocean. The islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. The culture is a mix of Chamorro, Carolinian, and Filipino influences.
- Baker Island: Baker Island is an uninhabited coral island in the Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia. It is an unincorporated territory of the United States and is managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. It is known for its unique flora and fauna and is a popular destination for scientists and researchers.
- Howland Island: Howland Island is another uninhabited coral island in the Pacific Ocean, near the equator. It is also an unincorporated territory of the United States and is managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. It is known for its beautiful beaches and unique bird species.
- Guam: Guam is an unincorporated territory of the United States in the western Pacific Ocean. It is one of the more familiar Islands of America and home to a rich Chamorro culture, with traditional dances, music, and food. The island is also known for its historic sites, including the War in the Pacific National Historical Park and the ancient latte stone pillars.
- Jarvis Island: Jarvis Island is an uninhabited coral island in the Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and the Cook Islands. It is also an unincorporated territory of the United States and is managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. It is known for its beautiful coral reefs and unique bird species.
- Johnston Atoll: Johnston Atoll is a tiny island in the Pacific Ocean, about 800 miles southwest of Hawaii. It is a United States territory, but it is currently uninhabited. The island is known for its essential role in the military and space programs and is a popular destination for researchers studying marine life.
- Midway Atoll: Midway Atoll is a chain of islands of America in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,300 miles northwest of Honolulu, Hawaii. It is a United States territory managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty and unique wildlife, including albatrosses, sea turtles, and monk seals.
Did you know?
Many of the islands that are part of America have interesting cultural and historical connections. For example, the Northern Mariana Islands were once part of the Spanish Empire and later came under German and Japanese control before being occupied by the United States during World War II.
On the other hand, American Samoa has strong ties to New Zealand and Samoa, and its culture is a unique blend of Polynesian, American, and European influences. These islands have complex and fascinating histories worth exploring to gain a deeper understanding of their significance.
A little history:
The islands of America have diverse histories that span centuries. Puerto Rico, for example, was claimed by Spain in 1493 and remained a Spanish colony until it was ceded to the United States in 1898 after the Spanish-American War.
The U.S. Virgin Islands were purchased from Denmark in 1917, while Guam became a U.S. territory after the Spanish-American War. American Samoa has been under U.S. control since the early 20th century, and the Northern Mariana Islands became a U.S. commonwealth in 1978.
The smaller islands of America, such as Baker Island, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston Atoll, and Midway Atoll, have been under U.S. control for varying lengths of time and have been used for military and scientific purposes. Each of the islands of America unique history has influenced its culture, traditions, and relationship with the United States.
