Overview of Anguilla

Profile

Anguilla is a flat island formed from limestone coral reefs covering just 91km², surrounded by over 20 small islets and rocky outcrops. The economy is supported by tourism, fishing, and rapidly growing revenue from licensing the country code top-level domain ".ai". The climate is warm year-round with relatively low humidity and gentle trade winds except during hurricane season. Beautiful beaches and pristine coral reefs are popular with luxury resorts and sailing enthusiasts, attracting many repeat visitors. Historically, settlement began with the Arawak and Carib peoples, followed by British colonization in the 17th century. Politically, it employs parliamentary democracy, with a legal system based on English common law.

Official name: Anguilla
Common name: Anguilla
Numeric code: 660
Alpha-3 code: AIA
Alpha-2 code: AI
Population: 16,000 (2023)
Population density: approximately 170 people/km²
Primary languages: English
Major religions: Protestant (Anglican, Methodist, Baptist, etc.)
National anthem: God Save the King (royal anthem) / God Bless Anguilla (territorial song)
Calling code: +1-264
Internet TLD: .ai

History

Under British control since 1632, it formally separated from Saint Kitts and Nevis in 1980 to assume its current form.

After Columbus named the island "Anguilla" (eel) in 1493, it remained primarily a stronghold of the indigenous Carib people. English settlers established cotton and tobacco plantations in 1632, bringing enslaved Africans as laborers. From 1825, the island was placed under administrative jurisdiction of Saint Kitts, but local residents consistently opposed this arrangement, declaring an "Anguillan Republic" in 1967. Britain peacefully restored governance in 1969, granting a self-government charter in 1976 and formal separation in 1980. Since then, it has enjoyed high autonomy while recognizing the British monarch as head of state.

Geography & climate

Flat coral reef island formed from limestone with few wetlands. Coastline features continuous coves and long white sand beaches. Inland consists of dry grasslands dotted with shrubs and cacti.

Tropical savanna (oceanic)

Area: North America / 91 km²
Capital: The Valley
Largest city: The Valley
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Seafood, Lobster, Sea salt, Limestone, Coral reefs, White sand, Trade winds, Sunlight, Mangrove, Seagrass beds, Sea turtle nesting sites

Politics

Government: Parliamentary democracy under constitutional monarchy (British Overseas Territory)

Economy

Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)

GDP (nominal): 3.9 hundred million USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 4.8 hundred million USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English

Time zone: AST

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Afro-Anguillan, Mixed (Mulatto), European, East Indian, Hispanic, Other

Life expectancy

81.1 years

Literacy rate

95%

National sports

Cricket, Boat racing (sailing), Football, Basketball, Athletics