Jersey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bailiwick of Jersey
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 Flag
 Coat of arms
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Location of Jersey (dark green)
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| Capital and largest city
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Saint Helier |
| Official languages | |
| Recognised regional languages | Jèrriais |
| Ethnic groups
(2011)
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| Government | Crown dependencyb |
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• Duke
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Elizabeth II |
| John McColl | |
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• Bailiff
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Michael Birt |
| Status | |
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• Administative separation from mainland Normandy
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1204 |
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• Liberation from German occupation
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9 May 1945 |
| Area | |
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• Total
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118.2 km2 (45.6 sq mi) (227th) |
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• Water (%)
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0 |
| Population | |
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• 2013 100,000 estimate
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97,857 (199th) |
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• Density
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819/km2 (2,121.2/sq mi) (13thc) |
| GDP (PPP) | 2005 estimate |
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• Total
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$5.1 billion (166th) |
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• Per capita
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$57,000 (6th) |
| Currency | Pound sterlingd (GBP) |
| Time zone | GMTe |
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• Summer (DST)
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UTC+1 |
| Driving side | left |
| Calling code | +44 |
| ISO 3166 code | JE |
| Internet TLD | .je |
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Jersey, officially known as the Bailiwick of Jersey, is a special island located close to the coast of Normandy, France. It is a "Crown dependency," which means it's connected to the British Crown but governs itself.
Jersey used to be part of the Duchy of Normandy. The dukes of Normandy became kings of England in 1066. Even after England lost control of mainland Normandy in the 13th century, Jersey and the other Channel Islands stayed linked to the English Crown.
Jersey is a self-governing island. It has its own systems for money, laws, and courts. The island can make many of its own decisions. The Lieutenant Governor is the Queen's personal representative on the island.
Jersey is not part of the United Kingdom or the European Union. It has its own parliament, called the States of Jersey. This parliament makes laws for the island. Jersey is divided into 12 local areas called parishes. Each parish elects its own leaders.
Jersey is part of several international groups. These include the British–Irish Council and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Jersey hopes to become a full member of the Commonwealth of Nations on its own.
Life and Culture in Jersey
British culture has a big influence on Jersey. English is the main language spoken there. The British pound is also the main money used. However, some people still speak Jèrriais, a traditional island language.
Everyday Life
Life in Jersey has many similarities to the UK. People drive on the left side of the road. They can watch British TV channels like the BBC and ITV. Schools in Jersey follow a similar learning plan to those in England. Popular sports include football, cricket, and rugby.
Images for kids
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Satellite view of Jersey
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Large, detailed map of Jersey
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The Central Business District of St Helier
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Aerial view of fields in Saint Clement, Jersey
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A cycle path in Gorey
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Jersey stamps commemorating the 150th anniversary of the birth of General William Mesny
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Mont Orgueil was built in the 13th century after its split from Normandy.
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St Thomas' Catholic Church in St Helier
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Jèrriais road sign ("The black road") in Saint Ouen.
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The Band of the Island of Jersey play at many events
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Actress Lillie Langtry, nicknamed the Jersey Lily.
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Jersey wonders, or mèrvelles, are a favourite snack consisting of fried dough, found especially at country fêtes. According to tradition, the success of cooking depends on the state of the tide.
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A statue of Jersey golfer, Harry Vardon, stands at the entrance to the Royal Jersey Golf Club
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Victor Hugo in exile, 1850s.
See also
In Spanish: Jersey para niños
