Martinique, island and overseas territorial collectivity of France, in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It is included in the Lesser Antilles island chain. Its nearest neighbours are the island republics of Dominica, 22 miles (35 km) to the northwest, and Saint Lucia, 16 miles (26 km) to the south.
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Like French Guiana, Martinique is a special collectivity (Unique in French) of the French Republic. It is also an outermost region of the European Union. The inhabitants of Martinique are French citizens with full political and legal rights.
Why is Martinique French?
During World War II Martinique adhered to the Vichy government of Nazi-occupied France for three years before rallying to the Free French cause in 1943. In 1946 Martinique was granted the status of a French département, and in 1974 it was made a région.
When did Martinique become French?
March 19, 1946
March 19, 1946 Martinique acquires the status of a French department.
Is Martinique its own country?
Martinique is an island country in the Caribbean Sea.Martinique is a French-speaking country, seeing as it is also a region of France, despite being offshore and physically disconnected from the rest of France. Martinique is considered part of the Lesser Antilles, an archipelago in the West Indies.
Are the people of Martinique French citizens?
Martinique is an overseas department of France, so its inhabitants are French citizens with full political and legal rights.Its official language is French, although many of its inhabitants also speak Antillean Creole (Créole Martiniquais). Its capital is Fort-de-France.
Is English spoken in Martinique?
The official language in Martinique is French, and Creole is widely spoken. English is not.
Is Martinique part of the US?
Martinique, island and overseas territorial collectivity of France, in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It is included in the Lesser Antilles island chain.
When did slavery in Martinique end?
1848
In fact, during its peak, 16% of Martinique’s population was African, as the slave population rose to 60,000 by 1736. It was ultimately the French government that abolished slavery in 1848.
What currency is used in Martinique?
Euro
What is Martinique known for?
Distinctly French, Martinique offers a seductive mix of magnificent beaches, dramatic mountains, tropical gardens, and fascinating history. Fort-de-France is the main city and capital. Here, you can explore architectural attractions and learn about the island’s pre-Columbian and colonial past at the city’s museums.
Did Christopher Columbus discover Martinique?
Martinique was discovered by Christopher Columbus on his fourth voyage in 1502. The island was inhabited by indigenous Indians who called the Martinique “the island of flowers”.The English Empire occupied the island for almost the entire period from 1794 to 1815 during which time the French Revolution occurred.
Why was France so interested in Martinique?
French and foreign merchants frequently came to the island to buy these exotic products, transforming Martinique into a modestly prosperous colony. The colonists also established another fort, Fort Saint Louis in 1638.
Can you drink the water in Martinique?
Tap water is safe to drink in Martinique.
Who is the leader of Martinique?
The current president of the assembly is Claude Lise.
Assembly of Martinique.
| Party | seats | |
|---|---|---|
| • | Gran Sanblé pou pa peyi an chans | 33 |
| Ensemble pour une Martinique Nouvelle | 18 |
What languages are spoken in Martinique?
French
Are people in Martinique black?
The majority of Martinique’s population is of African heritage, mixed with some French, Carib Indian, Indo-Martiniquas (descendants of 19th century Indian immigrants), Lebanese, and Chinese. It’s estimated the ethnic groups of Martinique break down as: 80% African/African-white-Indian mix.
What are Creole slaves?
There is general agreement that the term “Creole” derives from the Portuguese word crioulo, which means a slave born in the master’s household.In the West Indies, Creole refers to a descendant of any European settler, but some people of African descent also consider themselves to be Creole.
Is Martinique safe for tourists?
Martinique is a relatively safe Caribbean island. Main safety concerns when visiting the island include potential volcano eruptions and muggings. Avoid travelling alone or at night. Petty crime is common and can occur at any time.
Is Martinique expensive?
The fine dining, luxury resorts and impeccable sand don’t come cheap. Vacations to the area are notoriously expensive, especially during the winter. And as an overseas region of France, Martinique’s currency is the euro, so your U.S. dollars won’t go as far.
Is it expensive to live in Martinique?
The cost of living in Martinique can be extremely high depending on what your pockets are reaching for. But, if your more into simplicity and minimalist living, then there shouldn’t be much problem settling in. Rent can be high, but the views of the island mountains are priceless!
