Geography & Climate
- Size & Terrain: The island covers about 212 to 220 square miles. Its northern half is a flat limestone plateau, while the southern half features rolling volcanic hills and Mount Lamlam (1,332 feet), the highest point.
- Climate: Guam has a warm tropical climate with year-round temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (20°C to 30°C). A wet season runs from May or June through November.
- History & Government
- Indigenous Roots: The native Chamorro people first settled the island over 3,500 years ago, developing a rich culture marked by ancient stone house pillars called latte stones
- Colonial Eras: Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived in 1521, and Spain formally claimed the island in 1565. Following the Spanish-American War, Guam was ceded to the United States in 1898. Japan occupied the island during World War II from 1941 to 1944 before U.S. forces recaptured it during the Battle of Guam.
- Political Status: Under the 1950 Organic Act of Guam, residents are U.S. citizens, though they do not vote in federal general elections. The local government includes a popularly elected governor and a unicameral legislature
