Guam

Guam is an organized, unincorporated territory of the United States located in the western Pacific Ocean, part of the Mariana Islands. The island is about 30 miles long and 4 to 12 miles wide, with a land area of roughly 210 square miles. The capital is Hagåtña (also spelled Agana), and the largest municipality by population is Dededo. Guam’s location makes it a strategic military and civilian hub in the western Pacific.

Geography and environment: Guam is a volcanic island with a limestone interior and coral shores. It has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, a rainy season, and periodic typhoons. The surrounding waters host coral reefs and diverse marine life, and the island contains protected areas and cultural sites.

History: The Chamorro people have inhabited Guam for centuries. It was claimed by Spain in the 17th century and remained under Spanish rule until 1898, when it was ceded to the United States after the Spanish-American War. Japan occupied Guam from 1941 to 1944 during World War II; it was liberated by Allied forces in 1944. In 1950, Guam became an organized, unincorporated U.S. territory under the Guam Organic Act, which established limited self-government and granted U.S. citizenship to residents.

Government: Guam has locally elected institutions, including a governor and a 15-member Legislature. Residents elect a non-voting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. The official languages are English and Chamorro, reflecting the island’s indigenous and colonial histories.

Demographics and economy: The population is around 170,000, with Chamorro and Filipino communities forming the largest groups, along with other Pacific Islanders and Asian residents. The economy relies on tourism, the U.S. military presence, and government services, with visitors primarily from Asia and the Pacific region.

Infrastructure and culture: The island is served by the Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport and the Port of Guam. Cultural traditions include Chamorro language and crafts, latte stones, and historic sites such as Two Lovers Point and colonial-era churches. Guam preserves a blend of indigenous and contemporary influences and serves as a notable Pacific regional center.