US Virgin Islands

The group of Caribbean islands that form the insular area in the United States is called collectively as US Virgin Islands. Geographically, the islands form Virgin Islands archipelago and consist of main islands of Saint John, Saint Croix and Saint Thomas. Water island is one of the smaller islands, but it has a historical significance.

In 1493, Virgin islands in the US were named by Christopher Columbus and the islands were named after Saint Ursula and the virgin followers who settled on the islands. Several European powers took over the control of the island for more than three hundred years.

The islands became Danish colonies in the 16th century and sugarcane production during 18th and 19th centuries by slaves improved the economy. The World War I put an end to reformation in the islands and hence, the islands were deserted for several years. During 1917, US purchased Virgin Islands and gave US citizenship to the inhabitants.

The US Virgin Islands are popular for their long sandy white beaches. The harbors including Christiansted and Charlotte Amalie are immensely popular. Most parts of the islands are hilly because they are of volcanic origin. Main economic activity in US Virgin Islands is tourism. Agriculture is done only in small amounts and most of the food is imported. Many tourists come to spend some time on the islands in cruise ships.

St.John is the largest and greenest islands in the archipelago. Two thirds of the island is covered by beaches and parks. These beaches are great places for snorkeling and the parks have several hiking tracks. St. Thomas is the commercial center of the archipelago. St Criox on the other hand welcomes tourists warmly with its modern amenities that exist without affecting the ancient picture of the island. The islands are all well connected by roadways and waterways. English is the official language, but a group of people still speak French and Creole.

Deepak Khanna

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