Guam
Guam
- Capital
- Hagåtña
- Population
- 168,783
- Region
- Oceania
- Languages
- English, Chamorro, Spanish
Brown tree snakes are an infamous invasive species on the island, having accidentally arrived as stowaways on cargo ships after World War II. Their lack of natural predators led to an ecological transformation that decimated most of the island's native bird species. Local authorities and scientists have used unique methods to control the population, including dropping medicinal baits from helicopters. Despite this challenge, the island's vibrant culture continues to celebrate the resilient spirit of the indigenous Chamorro people.
Currency
Guam uses the United States Dollar (USD) as its official currency. Interestingly, during the Japanese occupation in World War II, a specific type of military currency known as 'oceanic yen' was forcibly introduced for use by the local population. After Guam was liberated in 1944, the U.S. dollar was reinstated as the sole legal tender for all commercial and governmental transactions.
Flag symbolism
The flag features a deep blue field with a narrow red border, representing the blood shed by those who defended the island. In the center lies an almond-shaped emblem known as the Guam Seal, which depicts a lone palm tree and a traditional canoe. The shape of the central seal represents an ancient Chamorro slingstone, a weapon used by indigenous warriors. The blue background symbolizes the vast Pacific Ocean that has shaped the territory's identity and navigation history.
Emblem history
The central emblem depicts Agana Bay and the mouth of the San Antonio River, where a single coconut tree stands in the sand. This palm tree survived a devastating typhoon, serving as a symbol of the resilience and determination of the local people to survive and flourish. A 'proa' or flying sailing vessel is shown in the water, honoring the exceptional seafaring and engineering skills of the ancient ancestors. The design was officially adopted in the mid-20th century to preserve these cultural icons within a unified national identity.