Aleutian

Aleutian is an adjective relating to the Aleut people or the Aleutian Islands in the northern Pacific Ocean. The term is most commonly applied to the Aleutian Islands, an extensive archipelago that extends roughly 1,200 miles (1,900 km) westward from the Alaska Peninsula toward Russia. The islands cross the 180th meridian and are part of the U.S. state of Alaska.

Geographically, the Aleutians consist of more than 300 islands and rocks. They are geologically young and highly volcanic, lying on the boundary between the Pacific and North American tectonic plates. The climate is oceanic, with frequent winds and fog; weather and seas are often harsh, contributing to a sparse terrestrial vegetation.

Ecology and environment: Surrounding seas are among the most productive in the world, supporting large populations of seabirds, sea otters, seals, and whales. The islands also host important fisheries and several protected areas. Habitat is largely tundra and shrub, with limited forest on some southern islands.

People and history: The Unangan people, called Aleut by Russians, have inhabited the islands for thousands of years. Russian exploration in the 18th century led to prolonged contact, fur trade, and Russian colonization. Alaska became a U.S. possession in 1867. During World War II, the islands were the scene of the Aleutian Islands Campaign, with Japanese landings on Attu and Kiska.

Culture and language: The Aleut people speak Unangan (Aleut) languages, which have multiple dialects. Many are endangered, with efforts to revive language and culture ongoing. Today the islands are part of Alaska's regional governance and support small, remote communities, fishing, and tourism.