Much of this island was devastated and two-thirds of the population fled abroad due to the eruption of the Soufriere Hills volcano that began on July 18, 1995. Volcanic eruptions have continued, making large parts of the island uninhabitable.

Contents

1 History

2 Politics

3 Geography

4 Economy

5 Demographics

6 Culture

7 Miscellaneous topics

8 Links

History

Main article: History of Montserrat

Montserrat was populated by Arawak and Carib peoples when it was claimed by Christopher Columbus for Spain in 1493, naming the island 'Santa Maria de Montserrat'. The island fell under British control in 1632. Immigration, mainly from Ireland, along with the import of slaves from West Africa followed, during the 17th and 18th centuries.

From 1871 to 1956 it was administed as part of the Windward Islands federation. It was a province of the short-lived West Indies Federation from 1958 to 1962. It was briefly captured by France between 1782 until 1783, when it was returned under the Treaty of Versailles.

In 1995 the Soufriere Hills volcano started erupting. Volcanic activity in 1997 was to cause the evacuation of most of the island, including the capital, Plymouth, and the departure of over half the island's population, but the island remains inhabited.

The residents were granted full residency rights in the United Kingdom in 1998, and citizenship was granted in 2002.

Politics

Main article: Politics of Montserrat

Montserrat is a British overseas territory (formerly a crown colony). The monarch, Elizabeth II, is represented by the Governor, Deborah Barnes-Jones .

The current Chief Minister of the island is John Osborne, of the New People's Liberation Movement . Moves towards full independence have been effectively halted by the volcano and the consequent evacuation.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Montserrat

Economy

Montserrat is a full and participating member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

It was formerly the home of a branch of George Martin's AIR Studios (and other amenities) that made the island popular with working and vacationing musicians and other celebrities.

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of Montserrat

Culture

Main article: Culture of Montserrat

Many of the last names are of Irish origin, as are the place names on the island. Upon entry, the passport is even stamped with a green shamrock. The crest on the flag has Lady Erin (Ireland) on it as well as the ancient Irish harp.

Miscellaneous topics

Links

Categories: Montserrat | Caribbean islands | CARICOM member states