Martinique

Martinique is an island located in the Lesser Antilles in the eastern Caribbean Sea, with a land area of 1,128 square kilometers. It is an overseas department and region of France, and its currency is the Euro. The official language is French, and the majority of the population is of African descent.

History

Martinique was originally inhabited by Arawak and Carib peoples. Christopher Columbus was the first European to sight the island in 1493, but it was not until 1502 that he landed there. In 1635, France claimed Martinique, and the French West India Company brought in slaves to work on sugar cane plantations.

Geography

Martinique is characterized by a diverse range of landscapes, from the mountainous north to the flat south. The island is home to Mount Pelée, an active volcano that erupted in 1902, causing the destruction of the city of Saint-Pierre.

Economy

The economy of Martinique is based on the agricultural, tourism and service sectors. Bananas, flowers, and vegetables are the main exports, while tourism is a significant source of foreign exchange.

Culture

Martinique's culture is a blend of French and Caribbean influences, with a strong tradition of Creole literature, music, and cuisine. The island is also known for its annual Carnival, which is one of the most famous in the Caribbean.

See also

• French West Indies
• Caribbean
• Overseas department