La Isla del Encanto
("The Island of Enchantment")
The idea of Puerto Rico becoming the 51st state has been bandied about for years. It seems, however, that Puerto Ricans aren't particularly anxious to make that happen. The self-governing unincorporated territory seems to like its relative level of autonomy, and why wouldn't it, given its long history of Spanish colonial rule. At the same time, Puerto Ricans have also enjoyed most benefits of U.S. citizenship since 1917 (although they face some restrictions, like those in federal voting). If anything, Puerto Rico desires for more autonomy, not less, at least when it comes to government.
Although tourism fuels the commonwealth's economy at the rate of nearly $2 billion a year, Puerto Ricans are among the poorest in the nation. Public debt is also growing at a faster rate than the economy, and Puerto Rico's unemployment rate is far above the national average.
Despite their economic woes, Puerto Ricans rigorously defend their unique culture. The cultural make-up of the islands is a distinctive mélange of African, Taíno (Amerindian), Spanish, and North American. While the official languages are both Spanish and English, Spanish is primarily used. Roman Catholicism has historically been the dominant religion, and it continues to be so,although other religions have gained in numbers. For instance, Puerto Rico is home to the largest Jewish population in the Caribbean.
Territory Name: Puerto Rico
Territory Nickname: "The Island of Enchantment"
Territory Motto: Joannes Est Nomen Eius ("John is his name")
Name for Residents: Puerto Ricans
Abbreviation: PR
Time Zone: AST, GMT/UTC -4 (No Daylight Savings Time)
Capital City: San Juan
Date Granted Territorial Status: 1917
Area: 3,515 square miles (9,104 km²)
Territory Population: 3,994,259 (2007 estimate)
Largest City: San Juan - 433,733 (2000)
Official Languages: English and Spanish
Highest Point: Cerro de Punta, 4,390 ft (1,339 m)
Lowest Point: Caribbean Sea (sea level)
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