5 facts
Discover the diverse British Overseas Territories – unique islands and lands across the globe. Explore their history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
While self-governing, they remain under the sovereignty of the United Kingdom, with Queen Elizabeth II as head of state, represented by a Governor. This connection influences their legal system and currency.
As a British Overseas Territory, one might expect the BVI to use the British Pound. However, it officially adopted the United States dollar in 1959 due to its close economic ties and proximity to the U.S. Virgin Islands, making daily transactions seamless for most visitors.
Having been settled by the English in 1609, Bermuda has a continuous parliamentary democracy since 1620, making its Parliament the third oldest in the world. It retains strong ties with the UK but has significant self-governance.
While the island maintains strong ties to the United Kingdom, it has its own constitution and a significant degree of internal self-governance. The UK is responsible for defense and foreign affairs, a common arrangement for these territories.
Dissatisfied with being part of the associated state of St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla, islanders voted to secede. This "revolution" involved expelling St. Kitts police and a peaceful British intervention to restore order, leading to Anguilla's direct British rule.
