Guam

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Guam is an unincorporated and organized territory of the United States located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is the largest and southernmost of the Mariana Islands chain. The capital city of Guam is Hagåtña, and the most populous city is Dededo.

History[edit | edit source]

Guam's history is rich and complex, with influences from various cultures and nations. The island was first populated around 4,000 years ago by the Chamorro people, who are indigenous to Guam. The first European to visit the island was Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, who was sailing for Spain. Guam was colonized by Spain in 1668 with settlers, including Diego Luis de San Vitores, a Catholic Jesuit missionary.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Guam is the largest island in Micronesia and it is the southernmost island in the Mariana Islands archipelago. The island is 30 miles long and 9 miles wide. The highest point is Mount Lamlam at an elevation of 1,332 feet.

Climate[edit | edit source]

Guam has a tropical rainforest climate, with an average temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The island experiences two seasons: the dry season from January to May, and the rainy season from June to December.

Demographics[edit | edit source]

As of 2020, the population of Guam was approximately 168,000. The majority of the population are the indigenous Chamorro people, followed by Filipinos, and a small percentage of other Pacific Islanders, Asians, and Caucasians.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Guam is largely supported by tourism, particularly from Japan, Korea, and the United States. The military also plays a significant role in the economy, with a large U.S. military presence on the island.

Health[edit | edit source]

Healthcare in Guam is provided by the Guam Memorial Hospital Authority and various private clinics. The island also faces unique health challenges due to its remote location and limited resources.

Education[edit | edit source]

Education in Guam is provided by the Guam Department of Education, which operates public schools on the island. There are also several private schools and the University of Guam provides higher education opportunities.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Guam's culture is a fusion of its indigenous Chamorro heritage, Spanish influences from its colonial period, and American influences from its current status as a U.S. territory.

Guam Resources
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