Entity: VIRGIN-ISLAND
The term 'VIRGIN-ISLAND' refers to a group of islands located in the West Indies, east of Puerto Rico, comprising the Virgin Islands of the United States and the British Virgin Islands.
VIRGIN-ISLAND
Etymology
The term 'VIRGIN-ISLAND' originates from the Spanish 'Islas Vírgenes,' meaning 'the virgins,' named by Columbus in honor of the legendary followers of St. Ursula.
Definition
A group of islands in the West Indies, east of Puerto Rico, comprising the Virgin Islands of the United States and the British Virgin Islands.
Historical Context
Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, the Virgin Islands have a rich history of colonization and trade, with influences from Spanish, British, and American cultures.
Cultural Significance
The Virgin Islands are known for their diverse cultural heritage, including local dialects like Virgin Islands Creole and unique traditions that vary from island to island.
Related Concepts
The Virgin Islands are geographically part of the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean, with close ties to neighboring regions like Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands.
See Also
A group of islands in the West Indies, east of Puerto Rico, geographically forming part of the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean islands or West Indies.