Guam is an island territory of the United States located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is the largest and southernmost island of the Mariana Islands archipelago. Here are some key points about Guam:
Geography: Guam is situated approximately 3,800 miles west of Hawaii and about 1,500 miles east of the Philippines. The island is characterized by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush tropical vegetation.
Status: Guam is an unincorporated territory of the United States, which means it is under U.S. sovereignty but does not have the same level of representation as a state or have voting representation in the U.S. Congress. The United States acquired Guam from Spain in 1898 as part of the Treaty of Paris following the Spanish-American War.
Capital and Largest City: The capital of Guam is Hagåtña (formerly known as Agana), and it is also the largest city on the island. It serves as the administrative and commercial hub of Guam.
Population and Culture: Guam has a population of approximately 170,000 people. The Chamorro people, who are indigenous to the region, form the largest ethnic group, and their language, Chamorro, is one of the official languages of the territory. Guam has a diverse population due to its historical and strategic importance in the Pacific.
Military Presence: Guam is strategically significant due to its location in the Pacific. The United States maintains a significant military presence on the island, including Andersen Air Force Base and Naval Base Guam. These bases support U.S. defense interests and contribute to the local economy.
Tourism: Guam is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and opportunities for water activities such as snorkeling and diving. Visitors also come to experience Chamorro culture, historical sites, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Economy: Tourism is a major contributor to Guam’s economy. Additionally, the military presence on the island plays a significant role in the local economy, providing jobs and driving economic activity. Other sectors include construction, retail, and services.
Time Zone: Guam operates on Chamorro Standard Time (GMT+10), which is 15 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the United States.
It’s important to note that this information is accurate as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, and there may have been developments or changes since then.