Bermuda was first settled in 1609 by shipwrecked English colonists headed for Virginia. Tourism to the island to escape North American winters first developed in Victorian times. Tourism continues to be important to the island's economy, although international business has overtaken it in recent years. Bermuda has developed into a highly successful offshore financial center. A referendum on independence was soundly defeated in 1995.
Location
North America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of North Carolina (US)
Area Comparative
About one-third the size of Washington, DC
Maritime Claims
Exclusive fishing zone: 200 NM
Territorial sea: 12 NM
Climate
Subtropical; mild, humid; gales, strong winds common in winter
Natural Hazards
Hurricanes (June to November)
Environment Current Issues
Asbestos disposal; water pollution; preservation of open space; sustainable development
Geography Note
Consists of about 138 coral islands and islets with ample rainfall, but no rivers or freshwater lakes; some land was leased by US Government from 1941 to 1995
