Overview of Dominica

Profile

Commonwealth of Dominica, a former British colony with strong French cultural influence, is a small island nation of approximately 750km². Features dynamic nature created by volcanic topography including world''s second-largest boiling lake, waterfalls, and hot springs, with central Morne Trois Pitons National Park designated as UNESCO World Heritage. Tourism development remains gentle compared to other Caribbean nations, popular with travelers favoring ecotourism, hiking, and diving. Member of Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), using Eastern Caribbean Dollar as currency.

Official name: Commonwealth of Dominica
Common name: Dominica
Numeric code: 212
Alpha-3 code: DMA
Alpha-2 code: DM
Population: 73,000 (2023)
Population density: Approximately 96 people/km²
Primary languages: English, Dominican Creole (French-based Patois)
Major religions: Roman Catholic, Protestant, Rastafari Movement
National anthem: Isle of Beauty, Isle of Splendour
Calling code: +1-767
Internet TLD: .dm

History

Named by Columbus in 1493, underwent French and British rule before independence in 1978.

Columbus reached the island inhabited by indigenous Carib people (now Kalinago) in 1493, naming it after Sunday (Domingo). France colonized in 17th century starting sugarcane cultivation, but became British territory under 1763 Treaty of Paris. Carib Reserve officially established in 1903, with semi-autonomy recognized today. After 1958 West Indies Federation, gained internal self-government in 1967, achieving independence as Commonwealth republic on November 3, 1978. Eugenia Charles became Caribbean''s first female Prime Minister in 1980.

Geography & climate

Steep volcanic mountains traverse island with deep valleys and hundreds of rivers flowing to sea. Coastal areas feature black sand beaches and coral reefs; inland has pristine rainforest with hot springs and fumaroles scattered throughout.

Tropical rainforest climate

Area: North America (Caribbean) / 750 km²
Capital: Roseau
Largest city: Roseau
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Boiling Lake, Freshwater Lake

Natural resources

Abundant rainfall, Geothermal energy, Hydroelectric potential, Hardwood timber, Fertile volcanic soil, Banana plantations, Herbs and spice plants, Fishing resources, Tourism resources, Essential oil plants, Freshwater lakes, Volcanic mud, Limestone caves

Politics

Government: Constitutional republic (parliamentary system)

Economy

Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)

GDP (nominal): 0.61 billion USD (2022)

GDP (PPP): 1.20 billion international dollars (2022)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English, Dominican Creole (French-based Patois)

Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

African descent, Mixed (Creole), Kalinago, European, Middle Eastern

Life expectancy

77.1 years

Literacy rate

94%

National sports

Football, Cricket, Netball, Athletics, Basketball