Bahamas, The
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Bahamas, The
The Bahamas: A Tapestry of Islands and Enchantment
The Bahamas, an archipelago nation nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, is a realm of breathtaking natural beauty, a rich and complex history, and a vibrant, welcoming culture. Comprising over 700 islands, cays, and islets, this island paradise stretches for more than 500 miles, from just off the coast of Florida to the northern shores of Hispaniola. Its allure lies not only in its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, but also in the intriguing stories of its past and the industrious spirit of its present-day inhabitants. The very name Bahamas is believed to derive from the Spanish phrase „baja mar,“ meaning shallow sea, a fitting description for the shallow, luminous waters that surround its islands and teem with marine life. This geographical characteristic has profoundly shaped the nation’s history, economy, and way of life, making it a truly unique destination on the world stage.
The population of The Bahamas, though relatively small, is a testament to a diverse heritage, predominantly descended from West African enslaved people brought to the islands during the colonial era, alongside early European settlers, primarily from Britain. This rich ancestry has forged a unique Bahamian identity, characterized by a strong sense of community, a vibrant musical tradition, and a deep connection to the sea. The official language is English, though a distinct Bahamian dialect, known as Bahamianese or Bahamian Creole, is widely spoken, adding a unique linguistic flavor to everyday interactions. The dominant religion is Christianity, with a significant presence of Baptist, Anglican, and Methodist denominations. The Bahamian people are renowned for their warmth, hospitality, and a laid-back approach to life, often referred to as island time, which encourages a slower, more appreciative pace of existence. This cultural ethos is palpable in every interaction, from bustling Straw Markets to intimate conversations with locals. The nation’s social fabric is further enriched by a burgeoning arts scene, with a growing appreciation for local painters, sculptors, and musicians, whose work often draws inspiration from the islands natural beauty and historical narratives.
The history of The Bahamas is a captivating saga of discovery, colonization, conflict, and ultimately, independence. The islands were first inhabited by the Lucayan people, an indigenous group of Taíno origin, who arrived from Hispaniola centuries before European contact. Their peaceful existence was shattered in 1492 with the arrival of Christopher Columbus, who claimed the islands for Spain. While the Spanish found little immediate economic value in the islands, they did deport many Lucayans to work in mines and plantations elsewhere, decimating the indigenous population. For centuries, the Bahamas remained largely uninhabited and a haven for pirates and privateers, who used the strategically located islands as bases for their raids on shipping lanes. Figures like the infamous Blackbeard are intrinsically linked to the romanticized, yet often brutal, history of piracy in the region. In 1718, Britain formally claimed the Bahamas as a colony, appointing Woodes Rogers as its first royal governor, tasked with eradicating piracy and establishing order. Under British rule, the islands experienced periods of economic growth, particularly through the cultivation of cotton and the lucrative slave trade. The American Revolution had a significant impact, as many Loyalist families fled the United States, bringing their enslaved people and agricultural practices with them. The abolition of slavery in 1834 marked a turning point, leading to profound social and economic shifts. The 20th century saw the rise of tourism as the primary economic driver, alongside the development of offshore financial services. The Bahamas achieved full independence from the United Kingdom on July 10, 1973, becoming a sovereign nation and a member of the Commonwealth. This independence was a culmination of a long struggle for self-determination, driven by a growing sense of national identity and the desire for control over their own destiny.
Geographically, The Bahamas is a marvel of coral reefs, shallow banks, and numerous islands, each possessing its own unique character and charm. The archipelago lies on the northwestern edge of the Caribbean Plate, a geological formation that has resulted in the formation of extensive coral formations and limestone islands. The majority of the islands are low-lying, with the highest point, Mount Alvernia on Cat Island, reaching only about 206 feet (63 meters) above sea level. This low elevation makes the islands particularly vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea levels and hurricanes, a growing concern in the face of climate change. The islands are divided into numerous districts, with New Providence, home to the capital city of Nassau, being the most populous and economically significant. Other major islands include Grand Bahama, the Abacos, Eleuthera, Andros, and Exuma, each offering distinct experiences for visitors. The archipelagos shallow, warm waters are renowned for their incredible visibility, making them a world-class destination for diving, snorkeling, and boating. The vibrant coral reefs, teeming with a dazzling array of fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures, are a testament to the delicate ecological balance that sustains this island paradise. The diverse marine ecosystems, including mangrove forests and seagrass beds, play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and protecting the coastlines from erosion.
The economy of The Bahamas is overwhelmingly driven by tourism and financial services, two sectors that have become intrinsically linked to the nations prosperity. The stunning natural beauty, coupled with a welcoming atmosphere and a well-developed tourism infrastructure, attracts millions of visitors each year. Resorts, hotels, cruise ship terminals, and a plethora of recreational activities cater to a diverse range of tourists, from those seeking luxurious relaxation to adventure enthusiasts. The financial services sector has also grown significantly, benefiting from the countrys stable political environment, favorable tax laws, and strategic location. This sector encompasses banking, insurance, investment management, and company registration, contributing substantially to the nations GDP and employment. However, the reliance on these two sectors also presents economic vulnerabilities, particularly in the face of global economic downturns or natural disasters that can disrupt tourism. The Bahamian government has been actively working to diversify the economy, exploring opportunities in areas such as agriculture, fisheries, and renewable energy. Efforts are also underway to enhance the competitiveness of the financial services sector and to attract investment in new industries. The development of a robust and sustainable economy remains a key priority for the nations future.
The Bahamas offers a wealth of tourist attractions, catering to every imaginable interest. The capital city of Nassau, on the island of New Providence, is a vibrant hub of activity. Here, visitors can explore the historic colonial architecture, wander through the bustling Straw Market for local crafts and souvenirs, visit the Queens Staircase, a 65-step climb carved out of solid limestone, and immerse themselves in the rich history at the Pirates of Nassau Museum. The Atlantis Paradise Island resort is a world-renowned destination in itself, boasting an impressive water park, an aquarium, casinos, and a wide array of dining and entertainment options. Beyond Nassau, each island offers its own unique appeal. The Exumas are famous for their swimming pigs, a whimsical and unforgettable experience where visitors can swim alongside these curious creatures in the crystal-clear waters. Grand Bahama Island offers pristine beaches, lush national parks like Lucayan National Park with its ancient cave systems, and opportunities for eco-tourism. The Abaco Islands are a sailors paradise, known for their picturesque harbors and excellent sailing conditions. For those seeking tranquility and natural beauty, islands like Eleuthera and Cat Island provide secluded beaches, charming fishing villages, and a more authentic Bahamian experience. The underwater world is perhaps the most compelling attraction, with world-class diving and snorkeling sites offering encounters with vibrant coral reefs, shipwrecks, and an abundance of marine life. From the thrill of swimming with sharks in the Exumas to the serene beauty of a sunset cruise, the Bahamas promises an unforgettable escape, a place where the azure waters and warm breezes invite you to leave your worries behind and embrace the magic of island living. The commitment to preserving these natural wonders is evident in the numerous marine protected areas and conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding the delicate ecosystems for future generations.
Information about Bahamas, The
The information comes from the publication CIA The World Factbook.
Automated text translation, excuse errors, please!
Country Bahamas, The is situated in a location / continent Central America. Bahamas, The has an area of 13 880 km2 and 316 182 residents. The highest point has a height 63 above sea level. and it is called Mount Alvernia, on Cat Island. The lowest point is located at the level of 0 above sea level and it is named Atlantic Ocean. System of government is Republic, Commonwealth member country and the date of independence 10th July 1973. The capital city is Nassau. Bahamas, The has the international abbreviation BF.
Bahamas, The - economy
Total gross domestic product (GDP) is 10 920 000 000 $. Total gross domestic product per capita in purchasing power parity is 31 400 $. GDP grows by 2.00 % a year. Inflation (consumer price index) is equal to 3.20 % a year. Bahamas, The have 184 000 working-age population (from a total population 316 182 people). Unemployment is at 14.20 %. Bahamas, The issued 7.20 % GDP to healt care .The total amount of foreign debt is 342 600 000 USD.
Bahamas, The - demography
As suggested above, Bahamas, The has 316 182 people. Population growth is in the amount 0.90 % per year. Number of children born per 1000 population per year is 15.95.Every mother has average 1.98 children. The infant mortality rate is 13.09 and maternal mortality 47.00 deaths per 100,000 births. Average estimated life expectancy makes 71.44 years. Mortality is 6.91 people per 1000 population per year.
Bahamas, The - transport and telecommunications
Bahamas, The has 2 717 km of roads and 61 airports. There is registered 1 160 ships.
Number of active mobile phones (sim card) in the country Bahamas, The is 298 800. Number of active fixed telephone lines is 133 000. Bahamas, The has 115 800 internet users, who have the available 20 674 Internet connections. Bahamas, The has been assigned a domain first Choose range .bs.
Bahamas, The - energetics
Bahamas, The consumes a year 1 808 000 000 kWh of electricity. Annual electricity production is 1 945 000 000 kWh in power plants with a total installed electrical capacity 493 000 kW. Bahamas, The exports 0 kWh and imports 0 kWh of electricity per year Energy mix of power generation is as follows: fossil fuels: 100 %, nuclear energy: 0 %, renewable: 0.0 %, hydropower: 0.0 %.
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