Territories of the United States facts for kids
The United States has sixteen lands that are not states. Many of these are like colonies or territories. None of them share land borders with the main part of the US. People live in five of these places. They are considered American, even though they are not states:
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What Are US Territories?
US territories are areas controlled by the United States. However, they are not part of any state. They also do not have the same rights as states. People living in these territories are usually US citizens. But they cannot vote in presidential elections. They also do not have full voting members in Congress.
Why Does the US Have Territories?
The United States gained these territories over many years. This happened through wars, purchases, or treaties. For example, some were gained after the Spanish-American War. Others were important for military reasons. They often have unique cultures and histories.
How Do Territories Differ from States?
States have full representation in the US government. They have senators and representatives who can vote on laws. Territories have limited representation. They send delegates to Congress. These delegates can speak and work on committees. But they cannot vote on the final passage of laws. This means they have less say in national decisions.
The Five Inhabited US Territories
Let's learn a bit about the five places where people live. Each one has its own special story.
Puerto Rico: The Island of Enchantment
Puerto Rico is a large island in the Caribbean Sea. It is home to over 3 million people. The capital city is San Juan. Puerto Rico became a US territory in 1898. This was after the Spanish-American War. People born in Puerto Rico are US citizens. They use the US dollar. Baseball is a very popular sport there. Many people speak both Spanish and English.
What is Puerto Rico's Government Like?
Puerto Rico has its own local government. It has a governor and a legislature. These leaders make laws for the island. The people of Puerto Rico vote for their local leaders. They also vote on whether to become a state. So far, they have chosen to remain a territory.
Guam: Where America's Day Begins
Guam is an island in the western Pacific Ocean. It is the largest of the Mariana Islands. Guam is known as "Where America's Day Begins." This is because of its location near the International Date Line. The island became a US territory in 1898. This was also after the Spanish-American War. It is an important military base for the US.
Who Are the People of Guam?
The native people of Guam are called Chamorro. They have a rich culture and history. Most people on Guam are US citizens. They have a local government similar to Puerto Rico's. Tourism is a big part of Guam's economy. Many visitors come to enjoy its beautiful beaches.
US Virgin Islands: A Caribbean Paradise
The U.S. Virgin Islands are a group of islands in the Caribbean. They include Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas. The US bought these islands from Denmark in 1917. They were bought for their strategic location. The capital is Charlotte Amalie on Saint Thomas.
What is Life Like in the US Virgin Islands?
Tourism is the main industry in the US Virgin Islands. People come for the warm weather and clear waters. The islands have a unique blend of cultures. This comes from their Danish and Caribbean heritage. Residents are US citizens. They have their own elected governor and legislature.
American Samoa: The Heart of Polynesia
American Samoa is a group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean. It is the only US territory in the Southern Hemisphere. The US gained control of these islands in 1900. This was through a treaty. The capital is Pago Pago. American Samoa is known for its strong Polynesian culture.
Are American Samoans US Citizens?
People born in American Samoa are US nationals, not citizens. This means they can live and work in the US. But they cannot vote in federal elections. They also cannot hold certain federal jobs. American Samoa has a traditional government system. It works alongside a modern elected government.
Northern Mariana Islands: Pacific Commonwealth
The Northern Mariana Islands are a group of islands in the Pacific. They are north of Guam. These islands became a US commonwealth in 1976. This was after being a United Nations trust territory. The capital is Saipan. Tourism is very important to their economy.
How is the Northern Mariana Islands Governed?
The Northern Mariana Islands have a special relationship with the US. They have their own constitution and elected government. People born there are US citizens. They have a delegate in Congress. This delegate can speak but not vote. The islands are known for their beautiful natural scenery.
See also
In Spanish: Territorios de los Estados Unidos para niños
