United States Minor Outlying Islands

Group of unincorporated territories of the United States

The United States Minor Outlying Islands is a statistical designation defined by the International Organization for Standardization's ISO 3166-1 code. It consists of nine insular areas of the United States that are not part of any state or federal district. These islands are unincorporated territories, meaning they are controlled by the U.S. government but do not have the same status as states or incorporated territories.

Islands

The United States Minor Outlying Islands include the following territories:

• Baker Island
• Howland Island
• Jarvis Island
• Johnston Atoll
• Kingman Reef
• Midway Atoll
• Navassa Island
• Palmyra Atoll
• Wake Island

History

The islands were acquired by the United States through various means, including the Guano Islands Act of 1856, which allowed U.S. citizens to take possession of unclaimed islands containing guano deposits. Over time, these islands have been used for various purposes, including military bases, wildlife refuges, and research stations.

Administration

The islands are administered by different U.S. government agencies. For example, Midway Atoll is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Wake Island is under the jurisdiction of the United States Air Force.

Geography

The islands are scattered across the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. They vary in size and geography, from the small, uninhabited Kingman Reef to the larger, strategically important Wake Island.

Demographics

The islands have no permanent population. However, some of them have temporary residents, such as military personnel or researchers. The total population is estimated to be around 300 people, most of whom are stationed on Wake Island.

Economy

The economy of the United States Minor Outlying Islands is limited. There is no commercial industry, and the primary activities are related to military operations, scientific research, and wildlife conservation.

See also

• Territories of the United States
• Insular area
• List of islands of the United States