Insular area
Insular Area
An Insular Area (pronunciation: /ˈɪnsjʊlər ˈɛəriə/) is a term used within the United States federal government to denote territories that are neither part of one of the fifty states nor the federal district.
Etymology
The term "Insular" originates from the Latin word "insulāris", meaning "island". The term "Area" is derived from the Latin word "area", meaning "a level piece of ground".
Definition
An Insular Area is a jurisdiction that is neither a part of one of the fifty states nor a Federal district. These areas are classified as either incorporated territories, where the United States Constitution fully applies, or unincorporated territories, where the Constitution applies only partially.
Examples
Examples of Insular Areas include Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. Each of these territories has its own unique cultural, historical, and political circumstances, which impact their relationship with the United States.
Related Terms
- Territory: A geographic area under the jurisdiction of a sovereign state.
- Incorporated territories: Territories that are considered part of the United States, where the Constitution fully applies.
- Unincorporated territories: Territories that are considered possessions of the United States, where the Constitution applies only partially.
- Commonwealth: A political unit having local autonomy but voluntarily united with the United States.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Insular area
- Wikipedia's article - Insular area
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