Our Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has been in the news a lot since Hurricane Maria struck the island on Sept. 20. The storm, with 150 mph winds, tore apart homes and business, destroyed power plants and crops, and left about 3 million people without shelter, clean water and food. As people in the United States learned about the disaster, it was reported that many didn’t realize that Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the U.S. What does that mean? Puerto Ricans are citizens and can move freely to the continental United States. But while they live in Puerto Rico, they cannot vote in presidential elections, and they do not pay federal income taxes. Like most states, Puerto Rico has a governor, a House of Representatives and a Senate, and a Supreme Court. This week, The Mini Page learns more about the commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
Who are Puerto Ricans?
Puerto Ricans come from many different backgrounds. The Spaniards who landed there in the late 1400s found thousands of native people. The Taino (tah-EE-noh) Indians lived in villages and raised sweet potatoes and corn, among other foods. They became slaves to the Spanish conquerors. Many of the Tainos died from starvation or disease. Later, as more Spaniards arrived, African slaves were brought to the island to work on sugar plantations. They were followed by Chinese and photo by Brad Clinesmith European immigrants. About 50 years ago, many Cubans immigrated to Puerto Rico. About 3.5 million people live on the island. Most live in cities. They speak Spanish, and many also speak English. Another 5 million Puerto Ricans live in the continental U.S.
Joining the U.S.
When the Spanish-American War ended in 1898, Spain surrendered, or gave up, Puerto Rico to the United States. Later, many Puerto Ricans wanted to become U.S. citizens. In 1917, President Woodrow Wilson signed an act that made Puerto Ricans U.S. citizens. In 1952, Puerto Rico became a commonwealth of the United States.
Living in Puerto Rico
Education is very important. Almost all Puerto Ricans can read and write by age 15. Family also plays a big role in their lives. Friends and family members help each other. People on the island work in manufacturing, tourism, real estate and other services. Farmers grow many fruits and vegetables, including bananas, grapefruit, lettuce, onions, pumpkins, beans and herbs.