The Bahamas is an island nation located in the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the United States and north of Cuba. It consists of over 700 islands, islets, and cays, with the capital city, Nassau, situated on the island of New Providence. The Bahamas is known for its breathtaking turquoise waters and is a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, sand, and sea.
Geography
Climate
The Bahamas enjoys a tropical maritime climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The islands experience occasional hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Fauna
The Bahamas is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. The islands also support a variety of bird species, such as flamingos, egrets, and herons. The Bahamas National Trust manages several national parks and protected areas to preserve the country’s natural heritage.
Longest Rivers
Unlike many other countries, the Bahamas does not have significant rivers due to its low-lying and limestone-based terrain. However, the islands are crisscrossed by numerous small streams and channels.
Highest Mountains
The Bahamas is relatively flat, with its highest point being Mount Alvernia on Cat Island, reaching just 63 meters (206 feet) above sea level. Despite its lack of towering peaks, the Bahamas is known for its stunning coastal cliffs and limestone formations.
History
Prehistory
The Bahamas has a rich prehistoric heritage, with evidence of indigenous Lucayan and Taino settlements dating back over 1,000 years. These indigenous peoples lived off the land and sea, crafting pottery, tools, and artworks from natural materials.
Colonial Era
The arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492 marked the beginning of European colonization in the Bahamas. The islands became a hub for the transatlantic slave trade, with African slaves brought to work on cotton and sugar plantations. The Bahamas changed hands several times between British and Spanish rule before ultimately becoming a British colony in the 18th century.
Independence and Modern Age
The Bahamas gained independence from Britain in 1973 and became a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth of Nations. Since independence, the Bahamas has developed a thriving tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors each year to its beaches, resorts, and cultural attractions. The country has also made strides in education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
Demographics
The Bahamas has a population of approximately 393,000 people, with the majority residing on the islands of New Providence (where Nassau is located) and Grand Bahama. The population is ethnically diverse, with Afro-Bahamians comprising the largest ethnic group, followed by mixed-race individuals and individuals of European descent. English is the official language, and the predominant religion is Christianity, with a significant Protestant and Catholic presence.
Administrative Divisions
The Bahamas is divided into 31 districts, each with its own local government authority. Here are some of the main administrative divisions:
Administrative Divisions and Population (2022 estimate)
- New Providence – Population: 274,400
- Grand Bahama – Population: 51,900
- Abaco Islands – Population: 17,200
- Eleuthera – Population: 11,000
- Exuma – Population: 7,300
- Andros – Population: 8,000
- Cat Island – Population: 1,500
- Long Island – Population: 3,400
- San Salvador – Population: 1,200
- Acklins and Crooked Islands – Population: 1,200
10 Largest Cities by Population
- Nassau
- Freeport
- West End
- Coopers Town
- Marsh Harbour
- Freetown
- High Rock
- Andros Town
- Clarence Town
- Dunmore Town
Education Systems
Education in the Bahamas is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. The government operates a system of public schools, supplemented by private and parochial schools. The University of the Bahamas is the country’s primary institution of higher education, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Transportation
Airports
The Bahamas has several international airports, including Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport, and Marsh Harbour Airport in Abaco. These airports serve as major hubs for domestic and international travel.
Ports
The Bahamas has several major ports, including the Port of Nassau, the Freeport Container Port, and the Port of Marsh Harbour. These ports facilitate the import and export of goods, as well as cruise ship tourism.
Country Facts
- Population: 393,000
- Capital: Nassau
- Language: English
- Religion: Christianity (predominantly Protestant)
- Race: Afro-Bahamian, mixed-race, European descent
- Currency: Bahamian dollar (BSD)
- ISO Country Code: BS
- International Calling Code: +1-242
- Top-level Domain: .bs