New Providence facts for kids
An artistic rendition of the Battle of Nassau
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 New Providence (Bahamas)
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Atlantic Ocean |
| Coordinates | 25°02′N 77°24′W / 25.033°N 77.400°W |
| Archipelago | The Bahamas |
| Area | 207 km2 (80 sq mi) |
| Length | 34 km (21.1 mi) |
| Width | 11 km (6.8 mi) |
| Highest elevation | 5 m (16 ft) |
| Administration | |
 Bahamas |
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| Demographics | |
| Population | 248,948 |
| Pop. density | 1,594 /km2 (4,128 /sq mi) |
New Providence is the most populated island in The Bahamas. More than 70% of the country's total population lives here. This makes it a very important and busy place!
Contents
Exploring New Providence Island
New Providence is a vibrant island in the Atlantic Ocean. It is part of the beautiful island nation of The Bahamas. The island covers about 207 square kilometers (80 square miles). It is 34 kilometers (21 miles) long and 11 kilometers (7 miles) wide. The highest point on the island is only 5 meters (16 feet) above sea level.
A Look at New Providence's Past
New Providence was first claimed by Spain. This happened after Christopher Columbus discovered the New World. However, the Spanish government did not develop the island much. They showed little interest in it.
Later, the island's main city, Nassau, was founded. It was first called Charles-town. But in 1684, the Spanish burned it down. In 1695, a man named Nicholas Trott rebuilt and renamed the city. He was a "Lord Proprietor," which meant he was given land by the King to manage. He renamed it Nassau to honor the Prince of Orange-Nassau. This prince later became King William III of England.
New Providence: The Heart of Government
New Providence is very important for The Bahamas. It is where the country's government is located. All three main parts of the Bahamian Government are here. These parts are the executive, the legislative, and the judiciary. They all work together to run the country.
New Providence: A Busy Hub
This island is also the main business center of The Bahamas. It has many banks and trust companies. More than 400 of them are located here. New Providence is also a huge tourist destination. Its hotels and port welcome a large number of visitors. Over two-thirds of the four million-plus tourists who visit The Bahamas each year come to New Providence.
Other Places to See on New Providence
Besides Nassau, there are many other interesting settlements on the island. Some of these include Grants Town, Bain Town, and Fox Hill. You can also find Adelaide, Yamacraw, and South Beach. Other areas are Coral Harbour, Lyford Cay, and Paradise Island. Sea Breeze, Centreville, and The Grove are also here. Finally, Cable Beach, Delaporte, Gambier, Old Fort Bay, and Love Beach are popular spots.
Images for kids
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Enlargeable, detailed map of New Providence
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An artistic rendition of the Battle of Nassau
See also
In Spanish: Nueva Providencia para niños
