Which major island groups constitute the West Indies within the Caribbean region?

The West Indies, which largely overlaps with the Caribbean region, is composed of several major island groups. These include the Lucayan Archipelago in the northwest, the Greater Antilles in the north, and the Lesser Antilles, which are further divided into the Leeward Islands, Windward Islands, and the Leeward Antilles, located to the east and south.

Besides the islands, what other landmasses are considered part of the Caribbean region?

The Caribbean region also includes coastal areas on the continental mainland of the Americas. These extend from the Yucatán Peninsula in North America, through Central America, and down to the Guianas in South America. Specific mainland areas often included are the coasts of Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Venezuela, as well as countries like Belize, Panama, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana due to their political and cultural ties.

How is the Caribbean region geologically defined, and what plate is it primarily situated upon?

Geologically, the Caribbean region is situated largely upon the Caribbean plate. This tectonic setting contributes to the region's geography, which includes island arcs forming the northern and eastern edges of the Caribbean Sea, such as the Greater Antilles and the Lesser Antilles.

What is the estimated population of the Caribbean, and what is its population density?

As of recent estimates, the Caribbean has a population of approximately 44,182,048 people. This results in a population density of about 151.5 people per square kilometer (392 per square mile), indicating a relatively densely populated region, especially considering its island nature.

What are the primary ethnic groups found in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean is characterized by significant ethnic diversity, a result of its history of colonization and migration. The primary ethnic groups include Afro-Caribbean, Latin-Caribbean, Indo-Caribbean, White-Caribbean, Mixed-Caribbean, Asian-Caribbean, and Indigenous peoples.

What are the dominant religions practiced in the Caribbean region?

Christianity is the predominant religion in the Caribbean, practiced by approximately 73.5% of the population. Other significant religious affiliations include those with no religion (20.6%), folk religions (2.5%), and Hinduism (2.1%), with smaller percentages adhering to other faiths.

What is the origin of the name 'Caribbean'?

The region derives its name from the Caribs, an indigenous ethnic group that inhabited the Lesser Antilles and parts of adjacent South America at the time of European arrival in the Americas.

What are the main pronunciations of 'Caribbean' in English, and which is considered older or more common?

Outside the Caribbean, 'Caribbean' is commonly pronounced with stress on the third syllable (/kæ.rɪˈbiː.ən/, KARR-uh-BEE-uh-n) or the second syllable (/kəˈrɪb.i.ən/, kə-RIB-ee-ən). The third-syllable stress is the older pronunciation, while the second-syllable stress has become more established over time and is often preferred by North American speakers, though major dictionaries list both. Within the Caribbean itself, a first-syllable stress (/ˈkær.ɪ.bɪ.ən/, KARR-ih-bee-an) is also noted as common.

How did the Caribbean region become so ethnically diverse?

The Caribbean's ethnic diversity stems from its history of colonization by European powers like Spain, England, the Netherlands, and France. This was compounded by the Atlantic slave trade, which brought millions of Africans to the region, and subsequent indentured servitude from the Indian subcontinent and Asia, alongside modern immigration from around the world.

What historical political unions existed in the Caribbean?

Two notable historical political unions in the Caribbean were the Netherlands Antilles, which existed in various forms from 1954 to 2010 as Dutch dependencies, and the West Indies Federation, a short-lived political union from 1958 to 1962 comprising ten English-speaking Caribbean territories.

What was the impact of European colonization on the indigenous populations of the Caribbean?

European colonization, beginning with Christopher Columbus, led to brutal treatment, enslavement, and a devastating decline in the indigenous populations of the Caribbean. This was primarily due to social disruption and epidemic diseases like smallpox and measles, to which the native inhabitants had no natural immunity.

What was the 'Encomienda' system, and how did it relate to the Caribbean's history?

The Encomienda was a Spanish labor system in the Americas where conquistadors were granted control over indigenous populations, ostensibly to protect and Christianize them, but often resulting in forced labor akin to slavery. This system had a devastating impact on the native population, leading to the increased importation of African slaves into the Caribbean starting in the early 16th century.

Which European powers colonized significant portions of the Caribbean, and what territories did they acquire?

Major European colonizers included Spain, England, the Netherlands, and France. Spain initially claimed many islands, but England gained Jamaica, France acquired Martinique and part of Hispaniola, and the Netherlands established colonies in various islands. These colonial rivalries often led to conflict and wars fought within the region.

How did the Atlantic slave trade shape the Caribbean's demographics and economy?

The Atlantic slave trade forcibly brought millions of Africans to the Caribbean, forming the basis of the plantation system, particularly for sugar production. This profoundly shaped the region's demographics, creating predominantly African or mixed-race populations, and its economy, which was heavily reliant on slave labor until abolition.

When was slavery abolished in different parts of the Caribbean by the major colonial powers?

Slavery abolition varied by colonial power: the Dutch abolished it in their empire in 1814, Spain in its empire in 1811 (with exceptions like Cuba until 1886), Britain abolished the slave trade in 1807 and slavery itself in 1833, and France abolished slavery in its colonies in 1848.

What role did pirates, particularly buccaneers, play in the Caribbean's history?

Pirates, often referred to as buccaneers, were prominent in the Caribbean, especially between 1640 and 1680. They operated in the region, contributing to its reputation as a war-torn area during its colonial history, though their activities were often intertwined with the rivalries between European colonial powers.

What significant event led to the establishment of Haiti as the first Caribbean republic?

A slave rebellion in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, beginning in 1791, ultimately led to the establishment of Haiti as the first republic in the Caribbean in 1804, marking a pivotal moment in the region's history.

How did the United States become involved in the political affairs of Cuba and Puerto Rico?

Following the Spanish-American War, the United States gained influence over Cuba and Puerto Rico. The Platt Amendment in 1901 granted the US the right to interfere in Cuban affairs, while Puerto Rico became an unincorporated territory of the United States after the war.

Which Caribbean nations achieved political independence primarily between the 1960s and 1980s, and from which colonial power?

Most of the British holdings in the Caribbean achieved political independence during the 1960s and 1980s. This included Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago (1962), Barbados (1966), the Bahamas (1973), Grenada (1974), Dominica (1978), Saint Lucia (1979), Saint Vincent (1979), Antigua and Barbuda (1981), and Saint Kitts and Nevis (1983).

What economic strategies did Caribbean territories pursue following the decline of traditional export industries?

Following the decline of export industries, Caribbean territories focused on diversifying their economies. Key developments included the growth of the tourism industry, which became significant from the 1960s onwards, and the rise of offshore banking and financial services, particularly in locations like The Bahamas and the Cayman Islands, leveraging proximity to North America and favorable regulations.

What historical pattern of U.S. military intervention has occurred in the Caribbean?

The United States has a history of military operations and interventions in the Caribbean, influenced by the Monroe Doctrine and Cold War dynamics. Examples include interventions in Cuba (Platt Amendment, Bay of Pigs, Missile Crisis), Hispaniola (1915-1934 occupation, 1994 invasion), the Dominican Republic (1965), Grenada (1983), and maintaining a naval base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

What are the main geographical features that define the Caribbean region?

The Caribbean is characterized by thousands of islands, islets, reefs, and cays situated primarily on the Caribbean plate. It features island arcs like the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles, and its waters include the Caribbean Sea, bordered by continental landmasses and the Atlantic Ocean.

How does the geography of the Caribbean islands vary?

The islands of the Caribbean exhibit diverse geography, ranging from relatively flat, non-volcanic terrain found in places like Aruba, Curaçao, Barbados, and The Bahamas, to islands with rugged, towering mountain ranges, such as Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, Dominica, and Martinique.

What is the significance of the Puerto Rico Trench?

The Puerto Rico Trench, located north of Puerto Rico on the fringe of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, is notable for being the deepest point in the entire Atlantic Ocean.

Describe the general climate of the Caribbean region.

The Caribbean climate is predominantly tropical, varying across the region from tropical rainforest to tropical monsoon and savanna climates. Some areas experience arid conditions with drought, while mountain peaks have cooler, temperate climates. Consistent trade winds from the east influence the weather patterns throughout the year.

What are the main island groups within the Lesser Antilles?

The Lesser Antilles are divided into two main groups: the Leeward Islands, located to the north, and the Windward Islands, situated to the south. Additionally, the Leeward Antilles form a chain along the northern coast of South America.

Which countries or territories are considered part of the Greater Antilles?

The Greater Antilles primarily include Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (comprising Haiti and the Dominican Republic), Puerto Rico, and the Cayman Islands. The Virgin Islands are sometimes included due to their location on the Puerto Rico-Virgin Islands microplate.

What historical colonial groupings existed in the Caribbean, and which European powers were involved?

Historically, the Caribbean was divided into various colonial groupings based on European powers. These included the Spanish West Indies (Spain), British West Indies (Great Britain), Dutch West Indies (Netherlands), French West Indies (France), Danish West Indies (Denmark), Portuguese West Indies (Portugal), and briefly Swedish and Courlander territories.

Which continental countries have significant Caribbean coastlines and islands that are often included in regional definitions?

Several continental countries are considered part of the Caribbean due to their coastlines and islands along the Caribbean Sea. These include Mexico (Yucatán Peninsula), Belize, Guatemala, Honduras (Bay Islands), Nicaragua (Corn Islands, Miskito Cays), Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Venezuela.

What makes the Caribbean a biodiversity hotspot?

The Caribbean is considered a biodiversity hotspot because its islands host exceptionally diverse terrestrial and marine ecosystems. These range from cloud forests and tropical rainforests to cactus scrublands and extensive coral reefs, supporting a vast array of unique flora and fauna.

What are some of the major threats to the Caribbean's ecosystems, particularly its coral reefs?

Caribbean ecosystems face threats from deforestation, pollution, and human encroachment. Coral reefs are particularly vulnerable to global warming and ocean acidification, and face potential extinction within decades due to factors like coastal population growth, overfishing, and pollution.

What were the primary agricultural crops that shaped the Caribbean's economy during the colonial era?

Initially, tobacco was an important crop, but it was eventually surpassed by sugarcane, which became the region's staple export crop for Europe. The dominance of sugar production led to the establishment of the plantation system, heavily reliant on enslaved labor.

What role does regionalism play in the politics and economics of the Caribbean?

Regionalism, exemplified by organizations like CARICOM and the Association of Caribbean States, plays a role in addressing common challenges, fostering collective action, and enabling Caribbean states to participate in international affairs. It reflects a desire for cooperation and collective economic competitiveness, partly driven by a lack of focused interest from major global powers.

What is the significance of the Lomé Convention and the subsequent US-EU trade dispute for the Caribbean?

The Lomé Convention granted preferential access for Caribbean banana exports to Europe. However, a World Trade Organization challenge by the United States led to the partial dismantling of this agreement, impacting Caribbean farmers and potentially increasing pressure towards cultivating illegal drugs due to falling profits and rising costs.

How has the African Union viewed the Caribbean in terms of potential integration?

The African Union has referred to the Caribbean as a potential 'Sixth Region' of the African Union, seeking to deepen ties between the continents. Several Caribbean states have taken steps towards integration, such as joining African financial institutions and establishing direct air links.

What are the predominant official languages spoken in the Caribbean?

The predominant official languages in the Caribbean are Spanish (spoken by the majority in Cuba, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico), French (common in Haiti and French Antilles), English (prevalent in the Anglophone Caribbean), and Dutch (used in the Dutch Caribbean). Many countries also have significant vernacular Creole languages.

What is the primary religion in the Caribbean, and what other religions are present?

Christianity is the dominant religion in the Caribbean. However, the region also hosts significant populations practicing Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Rastafari, Buddhism, Chinese folk religion, Baháʼí Faith, Jainism, Sikhism, and various Traditional African religions and Afro-American syncretic religions like Santería and Vodou.

What sports are most popular in the Caribbean, and which countries excel in them?

Cricket is highly popular in the former British West Indies, with the West Indies cricket team being a major international competitor. Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Aruba, and Curaçao. Football (soccer) is also widely played, with national teams competing in regional and international tournaments.

Name some of the key regional institutions that foster cooperation among Caribbean nations.

Key regional institutions include the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the University of the West Indies (UWI), the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), and the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), among others.

What is the approximate life expectancy in some major Caribbean countries, according to World Bank Group estimates?

According to World Bank Group estimates for 2023, life expectancy varies across the Caribbean. For example, Puerto Rico had an estimated life expectancy of 81.69 years, the U.S. Virgin Islands 80.52 years, Cayman Islands 80.36 years, and Cuba 78.08 years, while Haiti had an estimated life expectancy of 64.94 years.

What indigenous groups were present in the Caribbean at the time of European contact?

At the time of European contact, the primary indigenous groups were the Taíno in the Greater Antilles and northern Lesser Antilles, the Island Caribs (including Galibi) in the southern Lesser Antilles, and smaller groups like the Guanajatabey in western Cuba and the Ciguayo in eastern Hispaniola.

What impact did the arrival of the first humans have on the Caribbean's fauna, according to archaeological evidence?

Archaeological evidence suggests that the arrival of the first humans in the Caribbean is correlated with the extinction of certain endemic fauna, including giant owls like Tyto pollens and dwarf ground sloths such as Megalocnus.

What are some examples of endemic or threatened species found in the Caribbean's biodiversity hotspots?

The Caribbean's biodiversity hotspots are home to numerous threatened species. Examples include the Puerto Rican amazon parrot, two species of solenodon (giant shrews) found in Cuba and Hispaniola, and the Cuban crocodile.

What are some popular or national dishes from different Caribbean countries?

Caribbean cuisine is rich and diverse. Examples include Cou-cou and flying fish in Barbados, ackee and saltfish in Jamaica, arroz con gandules in Puerto Rico, doubles in Trinidad and Tobago, griot with rice and beans in Haiti, and various curries and roti dishes popular in countries with significant Indo-Caribbean populations like Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and Suriname.

Which islands are part of the Lucayan Archipelago?

The Lucayan Archipelago consists of The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Although geographically located in the Atlantic Ocean, these islands are often culturally and politically associated with the Caribbean region.

What is the significance of the 'Greater Antilles' and 'Lesser Antilles' in defining the Caribbean's geography?

The Greater Antilles form the larger, northern island arc of the Caribbean, including major islands like Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. The Lesser Antilles form a smaller, eastern and southeastern arc, often divided into the Leeward and Windward Islands, and sometimes including the Leeward Antilles.

How did the US-EU trade dispute over bananas affect Caribbean economies?

The dispute weakened the Lomé Convention, which had provided preferential access for Caribbean bananas to European markets. This led to falling profits and rising costs for Caribbean farmers, potentially encouraging a shift towards cultivating illegal drugs due to higher profit margins and demand.

What is the role of the University of the West Indies (UWI) in the region?

The University of the West Indies serves as a regional entity, fostering higher education and research across multiple campuses in Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago, with additional sites and distance learning programs serving numerous contributing territories. It plays a crucial role in regional development and cultural exchange.

What is the primary characteristic of the climate in the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao)?

The ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) are characterized by arid climates. This is partly due to their location outside the main hurricane belt and influenced by cool upwellings in the sea, which contribute to lower rainfall compared to other Caribbean islands.

What historical event led to the establishment of Haiti as an independent nation?

The Haitian Revolution, which began in 1791, was a slave uprising against French colonial rule. This ultimately resulted in Haiti declaring its independence in 1804, making it the first independent nation in the Caribbean and the first free black republic in the world.

Caribbean Wiki: The Caribbean Tapestry: An Exploration of Islands, Cultures, and Seas

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Region Overview

Geographic Context

The Caribbean is a region situated in the Americas, centered around the Caribbean Sea, primarily encompassing the islands of the West Indies. It is bordered by North America to the north, Central America to the west, and South America to the south, comprising numerous islands, cays, islets, reefs, and banks.

Extent and Boundaries

The region's geographical definition extends to include the Lucayan Archipelago, Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles. It also incorporates continental mainland areas bordering the Caribbean Sea, from Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula down to the Guianas in South America, reflecting strong political and cultural ties.

Population and Demographics

With a population exceeding 44 million, the Caribbean is characterized by significant ethnic diversity. This diversity is a legacy of colonization, the transatlantic slave trade, indentured servitude, and subsequent immigration, resulting in a rich mosaic of cultural influences.

Etymology and Pronunciation

Origin of the Name

The term "Caribbean" originates from the Kalinago people, an indigenous ethnic group indigenous to the Lesser Antilles and adjacent South American mainland at the time of European arrival. Their presence and name became intrinsically linked to the region's identity.

Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "Caribbean" exhibits regional variations, notably between British and North American English. While historical preference leaned towards stress on the third syllable (KARR-uh-BEE-un), the variant stressing the second syllable (kuh-RIB-ee-un) has gained prominence. Within the Caribbean itself, a first-syllable stress (KARR-ih-bee-an) is also noted as common.

Defining the Caribbean

Geographical and Political Scope

Geographically, the Caribbean is defined by the islands surrounding the Caribbean Sea. Politically, it is often considered a subregion of North America or Middle America, though sometimes treated as its own distinct entity. The United Nations geoscheme specifically designates it as a separate region within the Americas.

Cultural and Historical Connections

The term "Caribbean" can be broadened to encompass territories sharing significant cultural and historical links, particularly those influenced by Africa, European colonization, the plantation system, and the legacy of slavery. This expanded definition acknowledges shared historical trajectories beyond strict geographical boundaries.

Historical Trajectory

Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement

Human presence in the Caribbean dates back approximately 7,000 years, with evidence of early Archaic (pre-ceramic) and later Ceramic Age cultures. The Taíno, Island Caribs, and Ciboney were prominent indigenous groups encountered by Europeans. Early settlements reveal complex migration patterns and cultural interactions.

European Colonization and Rivalries

Following Christopher Columbus's arrival, European powers like Spain, England, France, and the Netherlands vied for control of Caribbean territories. This era was marked by the exploitation of resources, the brutal imposition of the encomienda system, and the devastating transatlantic slave trade, which profoundly shaped the region's demographics and social structures.

Slavery and Emancipation

The plantation system, driven by sugarcane production, relied heavily on enslaved labor from Sub-Saharan Africa. Millions were forcibly transported to the Caribbean. Emancipation occurred at different times across the region, with the Dutch abolishing slavery in 1814, Spain in 1811 (with exceptions), Britain in 1833, and France in 1848.

Revolutions and Independence

The region witnessed significant political upheaval, including the Haitian Revolution, which led to the establishment of the first Caribbean republic. Over the 20th century, many territories gained independence from European colonial powers, though some remain overseas or dependent territories.

Geopolitical Interventions

US Influence and Operations

The United States has exerted significant influence in the Caribbean for over a century, driven by the Monroe Doctrine and Cold War dynamics. Military operations, interventions (e.g., in Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Grenada), and the maintenance of bases like Guantanamo Bay have characterized this relationship.

Regional Dynamics

The Caribbean has been a focal point for international rivalries and political realignments. The legacy of colonial powers and the strategic importance of the region have led to complex geopolitical relationships and occasional external interventions, shaping the political landscape.

Geographical Landscape

Island Formations

The Caribbean is characterized by a vast archipelago, including the Lucayan Archipelago, Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles. These island groups exhibit diverse geological origins, from non-volcanic formations to rugged, mountainous terrains shaped by tectonic activity and volcanic arcs.

Marine Environments

The Caribbean Sea itself hosts rich marine ecosystems, including extensive coral reefs and seagrass meadows. Notable features include the Puerto Rico Trench, the deepest point in the Atlantic Ocean. The region's waters are vital for biodiversity and global shipping routes, including the Panama Canal.

Continental Coastlines

Beyond the islands, the Caribbean encompasses the coastal regions of Mexico, Central America, and South America. These continental areas, including the Yucatán Peninsula and coastlines of Colombia and Venezuela, are integral to the broader Caribbean identity due to shared cultural and historical ties.

Climate Patterns

Tropical Conditions

The Caribbean climate is predominantly tropical, ranging from rainforest to monsoon and savanna types. Variations exist due to elevation, island size, and ocean currents, leading to arid conditions in some areas, such as the ABC islands, and cooler, temperate climates in mountainous regions.

Seasonal Variations

A distinct wet season (May-November) characterized by increased rainfall and cloud cover contrasts with a dry season (December-April) of more consistent sunshine. Trade winds play a crucial role in moderating temperatures and influencing precipitation patterns across the diverse island landscapes.

Hurricane Season

The region is susceptible to hurricanes, primarily from June to November, with peak activity in August and September. These powerful storms frequently impact the northern islands, posing significant challenges to infrastructure and communities, as exemplified by events like Hurricane Irma.

Temperature Data

Mean daily temperatures remain warm year-round, typically ranging from 25-33°C (77-90°F). Seasonal variations in temperature are minimal on southern islands but more pronounced in the northern Caribbean, where continental air masses can influence winter conditions.

Oranjestad, Aruba (1981–2010 Averages)

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Mean Max °C (°F)	30.0 (86.0)	30.4 (86.7)	30.9 (87.6)	31.5 (88.7)	32.0 (89.6)	32.2 (90.0)	32.0 (89.6)	32.6 (90.7)	32.7 (90.9)	32.1 (89.8)	31.3 (88.3)	30.4 (86.7)	31.5 (88.7)
Daily Mean °C (°F)	26.7 (80.1)	26.8 (80.2)	27.2 (81.0)	27.9 (82.2)	28.5 (83.3)	28.7 (83.7)	28.6 (83.5)	29.1 (84.4)	29.2 (84.6)	28.7 (83.7)	28.1 (82.6)	27.2 (81.0)	28.1 (82.6)
Mean Min °C (°F)	24.5 (76.1)	24.7 (76.5)	25.0 (77.0)	25.8 (78.4)	26.5 (79.7)	26.7 (80.1)	26.4 (79.5)	26.8 (80.2)	26.9 (80.4)	26.4 (79.5)	25.8 (78.4)	25.0 (77.0)	25.9 (78.6)
Precipitation mm (in)	39.3 (1.55)	20.6 (0.81)	8.7 (0.34)	11.6 (0.46)	16.3 (0.64)	18.7 (0.74)	31.7 (1.25)	25.8 (1.02)	45.5 (1.79)	77.8 (3.06)	94.0 (3.70)	81.8 (3.22)	471.8 (18.58)

Temperature Data

Mean daily minimum temperatures generally range from 18-24°C (65-75°F), with slight variations across the region. Record lows are rare but indicate the potential for cooler conditions, especially during winter months in the northern parts of the Caribbean.

Havana, Cuba (Averages)

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Mean Max °C (°F)	25.8 (78.4)	26.1 (79.0)	27.6 (81.7)	28.6 (83.5)	29.8 (85.6)	30.5 (86.9)	31.3 (88.3)	31.6 (88.9)	31.0 (87.8)	29.2 (84.6)	27.7 (81.9)	26.5 (79.7)	28.8 (83.8)
Daily Mean °C (°F)	22.2 (72.0)	22.4 (72.3)	23.7 (74.7)	24.8 (76.6)	26.1 (79.0)	27.0 (80.6)	27.6 (81.7)	27.9 (82.2)	27.4 (81.3)	26.1 (79.0)	24.5 (76.1)	23.0 (73.4)	25.2 (77.4)
Mean Min °C (°F)	18.6 (65.5)	18.6 (65.5)	19.7 (67.5)	20.9 (69.6)	22.4 (72.3)	23.4 (74.1)	23.8 (74.8)	24.1 (75.4)	23.8 (74.8)	23.0 (73.4)	21.3 (70.3)	19.5 (67.1)	21.6 (70.9)
Precipitation mm (in)	64.4 (2.54)	68.6 (2.70)	46.2 (1.82)	53.7 (2.11)	98.0 (3.86)	182.3 (7.18)	105.6 (4.16)	99.6 (3.92)	144.4 (5.69)	180.5 (7.11)	88.3 (3.48)	57.6 (2.27)	1189.2 (46.84)

Biodiversity Hotspot

Ecosystem Diversity

The Caribbean islands host exceptionally diverse terrestrial and marine ecosystems, ranging from montane cloud forests to tropical rainforests and cactus scrublands. This rich biodiversity has led to its classification as a global biodiversity hotspot.

Marine Life

The region's shallow marine waters are adorned with coral reefs, supporting approximately 70 species of hard corals and 500-700 species of reef-associated fishes. These vital marine habitats are increasingly vulnerable to climate change impacts like ocean acidification.

Fungal Diversity

The fungal diversity is substantial, with estimates suggesting tens of thousands of species inhabit the region. While many remain undiscovered, current records indicate a significant number of endemic species, highlighting the unique evolutionary pathways within Caribbean ecosystems.

Threatened Species and Conservation

Many Caribbean ecosystems face threats from deforestation, pollution, and climate change, leading to the endangerment of numerous species. Examples include the Puerto Rican amazon parrot, endemic solenodons, and various marine life, underscoring the critical need for conservation efforts.

Political Landscape

Political Entities

The Caribbean comprises approximately 33 political entities, including 13 sovereign states and numerous dependencies and overseas territories. These entities are often grouped by colonial history (e.g., British West Indies, French Antilles) or geographical location.

Regional Cooperation

Independent nations formerly part of the British West Indies maintain joint ventures, such as the regional cricket team and the University of the West Indies. These collaborations foster a sense of shared identity and mutual development across the Anglophone Caribbean.

Continental Integration

Continental countries with Caribbean coastlines, such as Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, and Venezuela, are often integrated into the broader Caribbean sphere due to shared maritime borders, cultural exchange, and historical connections.

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References

The Netherlands Antilles: The joy of six, The Economist, 29 April 2010

Random House Dictionary

American Heritage Dictionary

Merriam Webster

Oxford Online Dictionaries

Clinton In Caribbean: No Bananas Today, 11 May 1997, The New York Times.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Caribbean Wikipedia page

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This content has been generated by Artificial Intelligence and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is based on data sourced from Wikipedia and may not reflect the most current information or nuances of the topic.

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The Caribbean Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Region Overview 🗺️

📍 Geographic Context

🌍 Extent and Boundaries

📊 Population and Demographics

Etymology and Pronunciation 🗣️

📜 Origin of the Name

🔊 Pronunciation Variations

Defining the Caribbean 📝

🌐 Geographical and Political Scope

🤝 Cultural and Historical Connections

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🏛️ Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement

🚢 European Colonization and Rivalries

⛓️ Slavery and Emancipation

✊ Revolutions and Independence

Geopolitical Interventions ⚔️

🇺🇸 US Influence and Operations

🌍 Regional Dynamics

Geographical Landscape ⛰️

🏝️ Island Formations

🌊 Marine Environments

⛰️ Continental Coastlines

Climate Patterns 🌡️

☀️ Tropical Conditions

🌧️ Seasonal Variations

🌀 Hurricane Season

🌡️ Temperature Data

Oranjestad, Aruba (1981–2010 Averages)

🌡️ Temperature Data

Havana, Cuba (Averages)

Biodiversity Hotspot 🦋

🌿 Ecosystem Diversity

🐠 Marine Life

🍄 Fungal Diversity

🦜 Threatened Species and Conservation

Political Landscape 🏛️

🗺️ Political Entities

🤝 Regional Cooperation

🌐 Continental Integration

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

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Region Overview

Geographic Context

Extent and Boundaries

Population and Demographics

Etymology and Pronunciation

Origin of the Name

Pronunciation Variations

Defining the Caribbean

Geographical and Political Scope

Cultural and Historical Connections

Historical Trajectory

Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement

European Colonization and Rivalries

Slavery and Emancipation

Revolutions and Independence

Geopolitical Interventions

US Influence and Operations

Regional Dynamics

Geographical Landscape

Island Formations

Marine Environments

Continental Coastlines

Climate Patterns

Tropical Conditions

Seasonal Variations

Hurricane Season

Temperature Data

Temperature Data

Biodiversity Hotspot

Ecosystem Diversity

Marine Life

Fungal Diversity

Threatened Species and Conservation

Political Landscape

Political Entities

Regional Cooperation

Continental Integration

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

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Gamer's Corner

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References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice