Puerto Rican

Puerto Rico, officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico), is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the northeast Caribbean Sea. It is an archipelago among the Greater Antilles, lying east of the Dominican Republic and west of the Virgin Islands.

History

Puerto Rico's history extends back to the pre-Columbian era, with the indigenous Taíno people. It was claimed for Spain by Christopher Columbus in 1493, under whose rule it remained until the Spanish-American War. Following the war, Puerto Rico was ceded to the United States in 1898, as part of the Treaty of Paris. In 1952, Puerto Rico's status was changed to that of a Commonwealth, providing it with a degree of autonomous governmental authority.

Geography

Puerto Rico is approximately 9,000 square kilometers in size and consists of the main island of Puerto Rico and several smaller islands, including Vieques, Culebra, and Mona. The island has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, waterfalls, and tropical rainforest, with the highest point being Cerro de Punta. The climate is tropical marine, with little seasonal temperature variation.

Economy

The economy of Puerto Rico is classified as a high income economy by the World Bank, and it is one of the most competitive economies in Latin America. Its main sectors include manufacturing (primarily pharmaceuticals, textiles, petrochemicals, and electronics) followed by services (notably finance, insurance, real estate, and tourism).

Demographics

The population of Puerto Rico was estimated at 3.2 million in 2020. Spanish and English are the official languages, with Spanish being the predominant language. The majority of the population is of Hispanic descent, primarily of Spanish origin, with significant African, Native American, and other roots.

Culture

Puerto Rican culture is a vibrant mix of Spanish, African, and Taíno influences. The island is renowned for its traditional cuisine, music, and dance, including the popular salsa. Festivals such as the San Sebastián Street Festival in San Juan are important cultural events.

Government and politics

Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States with a local constitution approved by the Congress of the United States. The head of government is the Governor, and it has a bicameral legislature. Residents of Puerto Rico do not vote in U.S. presidential elections, but they do elect a non-voting representative to the U.S. Congress.

See also

• List of Puerto Ricans
• Music of Puerto Rico
• Economy of Puerto Rico
• Geography of Puerto Rico

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