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The relatively small island of Puerto Rico has a
comparatively large array of natural riches. Its central
mountain range reaches an altitude of 1338m (4390ft) at
Cerro de Punta; it is in possession of the only tropical
rainforest in the US National Forest System, El Yunque; and
its beaches brag warm, turquoise waters and soft, yellow
sand. Indeed, Puerto Rico's bionetwork succeeds in
comprising unique characteristics, that are different to
what can be found on US soil, despite being a 'commonwealth
state' of the USA. This same uniqueness can be discovered in
Puerto Rico's culture and way of life. Many of San Juan's
buildings have proudly preserved their original Spanish
style. This is still an island of fiestas and paella.
Puerto Rico was 'discovered' by Columbus in 1493 on his
second voyage to the New World (despite the Taino Indians
being the first Puerto Rican inhabitants). It was governed
by Ponce de Leon from 1508. Therefore existed many years of
Spanish rule before Puerto Rico (Rich Port) was eventually
ceded to the USA in 1898 a the end of the Spanish - American
War.
In 1917, Puerto Ricans were granted US citizenship and,
in 1952, the island become a self-governing 'Commonwealth in
association with the USA'. Many people regard this situation
as a compromise between full membership to the USA and full
independence. In practice, this gives Puerto Ricans an
American passport and makes them eligible for military draft
but they do not pay US federal taxes and cannot vot in US
elections.
You can also hear the meeting of cultures in the island's
infectious music, which pounds out the fast-paced rhythm of
nightlife in Puerto Rico. Latino beats fuse with West
African percussion, which in turn intermingles with swing and
big band. What a wonderfull to enjoy multiculturalism!
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