Guam
Island , U.S.A
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Guam,
the largest and southermost island
of the Marianas chain, is the westernmost
possession of the United States since
1898. The island is known as "America's
Gateway to Asia" because of its
unique geographic and economic position.
The
island of Guam is two hundred and
twelve square miles and is about
thirty miles long and four to nine
miles wide at its center. The southern
part of Guam is made up of volcanic
soil that range in altitude of 1300
feet. The central and northern parts
of the island are made up of limestone
with steep cliffs that drop down
to narrow coasts.
Chamorros
inhabited the island of Guam before
the Spaniards came in the 16th century.
Guam's Chamorro culture and language
is a mixture of Spanish, Micronesia,
Asian and western influences over
the last 300 years.
Historical
landmarks, coupled with the natural
beauty of Guam, offer numerous sights
of interest. Latte, which served
as foundation pillars for the thatched
huts of the Chamorros, are found
in parks and out-of-the-way jungle
areas. The graceful remains of Spanish
buildings, the Plaza De España,
and stone bridges may be seen in
Hagåtña, Guam’s capital. The Spanish
influence is clearly visible in
the architectural design of Guam’s
southern homes and villages.
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