Providence Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The island was discovered by Spanish explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in 1542, and it was claimed by Spain as part of the New World in 1543. The Dutch claimed the island in 1613, but they were never able to establish a permanent settlement on it.
The English acquired the island from the Dutch in 1663 and renamed it Providence Island after the English capital city of Providence. The United States acquired the island from England in 1783 and established a permanent settlement there in 1790. The population of Providence Island peaked at around 1,500 in the early 20th century, but it has since declined to around 200 today.
Contents
All About Of Providence Island
History
Providence Island, originally known as Juan Fernández, was first sighted by Portuguese explorer Tristão de Cunha on March 2, 1520. After being blown off course in a storm, Cunha sighted an island that he named Ilha de San Fernández (Island of Saint Ferdinand), in honor of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, who sponsored the expedition.
However, the island was soon renamed in honor of Portuguese explorer Fernão de Magalhães who discovered it on February 14, 1521. The island was administered by the Portuguese Crown as part of the Captaincy General of Chile until 1825 when it became part of the newly created Province of Tierra del Fuego.
The Chilean government ceded control to Argentina in 1880 and it passed to the United Kingdom in 1883. The British government administered it as part of Falkland Islands Dependencies until 1982 when it became an autonomous region within the Argentine Republic.
Geography
Providence Island is located in the southern hemisphere, about 1,350 miles (2,190 km) east of South America and 2,700 miles (4,900 km) west of Antarctica. The island has an area of 53 square miles (137 sq km). It comprises a central plateau rising to 512 feet (157 m) above sea level and five smaller ridges that extend outward from the plateau. The northernmost ridge extends to 78°S latitude and the southernmost reaches 55°S latitude.
Ecosystem
Providence Island is dominated by montane shrubland, with a rich assemblage of plants including groundsels, heathers, and junipers. There are also extensive areas of mosses and ferns. The island has a wide variety of bird species that include southern rockhopper penguins, Magellanic woodpeckers, imperial shrikes, stonechat birds and yellow-eyed penguins.
Population
The population of Providence Island is unknown.
Economy
The economy of Providence Island is based largely on the export of agricultural products, which account for over 60% of GDP. Services and manufacturing are also important contributors to the economy, with a significant amount of tourism revenue generated by visitors to the island. The government runs a number of public enterprises, including a health care system and a telecommunications company.
Climate
The climate on Providence Island is temperate, with a mean temperature of 68°F (20°C). The island experiences significant variations in temperature due to the moderating effects of the Atlantic Ocean.
Culture and Religion
There is no official census data on the cultural demographics of Providence Island, but it is likely that the majority of the population adhere to Christianity.
Languages
The official language of Providence Island is English, but there are also a number of indigenous languages spoken by the island’s population.
Education
There is no formal education system on Providence Island, but a number of schools are run by the government.
Politics
The political system of Providence Island is based on a parliamentary system. The government is led by a prime minister who is appointed by the parliament. The parliament has two chambers, the House of Assembly and the Senate.The head of state is the queen, who represents British interests on the island.
Government Services
Government services on Providence Island are limited, with a number of public enterprises operated by the government. These include a health care system and a telecommunications company.
Tourism
Tourism is a major contributor to the economy of Providence Island. The island is visited by a number of tourists each year, who come to see its natural wonders and explore its cultural attractions.
Hotels and Resorts List
The following list includes a number of hotels and resorts located on Providence Island.
-The Heritage Inn
-Greenbrier Resort
-Providence Island Marriott Hotel
-Somerset Manor Resort
Attractions
There are many attractions in Providence Island, but some of the most popular ones include:
-The Blue Lagoon – This geothermal spa is known for its therapeutic properties and has been a favorite destination for people all over the world for centuries.
-Providence Plantations – This is an impressively large plantation that covers an area of more than 2,000 acres. It’s home to more than 200 species of trees and countless other plants and animals.
-Brown University – This prestigious Ivy League university is located on Providence Island and offers a wealth of educational opportunities, including degree programs in business, law, engineering, and more.
-The Augustine United Methodist Church – This historic church is one of the most popular attractions on the island and offers a beautiful view of Brown University from its bell tower.
Activities
Activities available on Providence Island include hiking, fishing and skiing.
Transport
There is no formal transport system on the island, but a number of ferries make regular crossings between the island and mainland United States.
Cuisine
The cuisine of Providence Island is largely influenced by American cuisine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Providence Island is a promising and beautiful island that is perfect for those who are looking for a relaxing and tranquil getaway. The island has a diverse range of attractions and activities that will appeal to everyone, making it an ideal destination for vacationers of all ages and interests.
FAQs
1.What Is The Currency Of Providence Island?
Ans: Providence Island uses the US dollar as its official currency.
2.What Is The Climate Of Providence Island?
Ans: Providence Island has a temperate climate, which means that it experiences warm summers and cold winters.
3.What Is The Population Of Providence Island?
Ans: The population of Providence Island is not publicly known.
4.How Easy Is It To Get To Providence Island?
Ans: Getting to Providence Island is not difficult, as there are regular ferries that make the crossing between the island and mainland United States.
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