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Bermuda consists of a chain of some 180 coral islands and islets lying 1,046km (650 miles) off the coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, in the Atlantic Ocean. Its coastlines are characterised by small bays with beaches of fine pale pink coral sand and surrounding vivid blue-green waters. Inland is an abundance of subtropical plants and flowers.
Bermuda was first discovered by Juan de Bermudez, a Spanish sailor, in 1505. It was claimed in England’s name by Sir George Somers, in July 1609. After colonisation, the island prospered and has continued to do so almost continuously ever since. The tourist industry, catering particularly for the American market, began in Victorian times. Today, there are still elements of British culture and customs in almost every aspect of life on the islands.
In 1968, the island was granted internal self-government (formally a British Dependent Territory) while the UK retained control of defence and foreign policy. The issue of independence continues to crop up. A referendum on independence was last held in 1995 but a low turnout produced a majority against independence. In June 2005, opinion polls showed 20.1% supported self-governance, with 65% opposed.
Bermuda was first discovered by Juan de Bermudez, a Spanish sailor, in 1505. It was claimed in England’s name by Sir George Somers, in July 1609. After colonisation, the island prospered and has continued to do so almost continuously ever since. The tourist industry, catering particularly for the American market, began in Victorian times. Today, there are still elements of British culture and customs in almost every aspect of life on the islands.
In 1968, the island was granted internal self-government (formally a British Dependent Territory) while the UK retained control of defence and foreign policy. The issue of independence continues to crop up. A referendum on independence was last held in 1995 but a low turnout produced a majority against independence. In June 2005, opinion polls showed 20.1% supported self-governance, with 65% opposed.
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