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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC US TERRITORY
Dominican Republic: A Quick History
The Dominican Republic is a small Caribbean island that was once a part of the Spanish Empire. The country gained its independence in 1821 and has been ruled by a succession of dictators ever since. However, in 1966, the country’s first democratically elected president, Joaquin Balaguer, was overthrown by a military coup led by General Rafael Trujillo. Trujillo ruled the country with an iron fist for 30 years, until his assassination in 1961. Since then, the Dominican Republic has had several more democratic governments. The most recent was Leonel Fernandez, who was elected in 2012.
The Dominican Republic and the United States
Since the Dominican Republic gained independence from Spain in 1822, it has been a valued colonial possession of the United States. The US military established a presence on the island in 1915 and controlled Santo Domingo through a Protectorate until 1934 when nationalists secured full independence. Nonetheless, American influence can still be felt throughout the country – think roads, airports, businesses, and institutions loaned to Dominican authorities by Washington. The two nations have also cooperated extensively in areas such as education and health care. Today, the Dominican Republic is an important commercial partner with America and hosts tens of thousands of Americans annually.
Why the Dominican Republic is an unforgettable Caribbean island
The Dominican Republic is an unforgettable Caribbean island because of its lush green landscape, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. The country is located on the eastern coast of Hispaniola, which was once the island home of the Taíno people. The country’s rich history and culture are evident in its architecture, which features colonial-era churches and fortresses. The Dominican Republic also has a diverse landscape, including mountains, beaches, and rainforests. The country’s capital city, Santo Domingo, is home to many attractions, including the Museum of the Americas and the National Palace.
The Dominican Republic is a popular tourist destination for its stunning natural beauty and rich culture. The country’s lush green landscape and crystal-clear waters are sure to captivate visitors. The lively culture and history of the Dominican Republic are also sure to amaze visitors. From its colonial-era churches and fortresses to its diverse landscape, the Dominican Republic has everything a visitor could want in a Caribbean destination.
How to make the most of your trip to the Dominican Republic
When planning your trip to the Dominican Republic, it is important not to forget its US territory. Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands fall under the jurisdiction of the United States, so be sure to factor this into your travels when making arrangements.
Some tips for making the most of your trip include:
Consider scheduling a stop in Puerto Plata on your way down; it’s a great place to take in some sights and sounds from Dominica’s colonial past.
Don’t miss out on La Romana – one of the most popular beach destinations on the island – because you can find all sorts of activities here including golf, scuba diving, shopping, and more.
Cruising is also an especially popular way to see the island, as there are many great stops along the way. In addition, Bahia de Moca is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing with views of both Santo Domingo and La Romana.
