A PART OF THE UNITED STATES SINCE 1898, when Spain
relinquished ownership in the settlement after the American
victory in the Spanish�American War. It had been a Spanish
only place in the United States with the offi cial languages of both Spanish
and English. As a territory, it enjoys a degree of autonomy, while Puerto
Ricans are full-fl edged American citizens.
beaches and striking scenery along the
shore and in the mountains. But it
is subject to hazards such as tropical
drought and a limited
supply of fresh water.
economy. Since 2006 Puerto Rico has lost
15 percent of its GNP (gross national
product). Employment stands at 34
percent, meaning only one in three
Puerto Ricans is gainfully employed. The
population has decreased by 35,000 to
40,000 people per year on average. Many
of the best and brightest leave to find