Despite the tourism (from cruise ships) and agriculture growing rapidly, poverty is still rampant and the main cause of the emigration of males (to find jobs to support their families); hurricanes continue to hurt the economy, which is still rebuilding from the destruction caused in 2004-2005. It has been an independent country since the 70s; however, radical revolutions and coups have weakened the nation (despite US intervention in the 80s). In 1983, a constitutional monarchy was formed, bringing some stability to the natives. Nominal Christianity (mostly Catholic) with major growth in non-religious.
Economic growth stabilized by large subsidies from Europe (in agriculture and tourism), and heavily dependant on imports. Widespread unemployment, especially among youth. There has been civil unrest over standard of living for the nation, despite it's high standard of living among the other islands of the Caribbean. France continues to support the nation; many are not motivated to gain autonomy or political control over the nation, but prefer to continue having France control things. While the large majority claim Christianity, there only seems to be growth in non-religious beliefs.
About a third of the island is used as a US military base; this should expand as the base in Okinawa, Japan is moved to Guam. Most employment is through these military bases, and tourism continues to grow, but a quarter of the population is on welfare and unable to find work. Self-governing US territory since 1898, but Guamanians are considered US citizens. While predominantly Christian, there is a large influence of Chinese religions, with conversion of about 10% annually.
All maps/photos are from worldatlas.com
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