Puerto Rico Facts for Kids

Puerto Rico, which means Rich Port in Spanish, is a Caribbean Island. It is situated in north east of Caribbean Sea, between the Dominican Republic and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Besides the literal meaning of Puerto Rico, the island is also famously known as The Island of Enchantment. In our article today, we will glance over some interesting facts about Puerto Rico. This way, you can learn in detail about this gorgeous island of enchantment.

Puerto Rico Facts and Information

If someone wishes to learn about a particular country or place, the best to visit it personally and acquire as much information as possible. However, due to monetary and time constraints, this isn't possible for many. In that case, another alternative is to read articles like these. Which is why, the following facts for children will surely be informational for all ages.

Fact #1
The official name of Puerto Rico is the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, a United States' unincorporated (not legally organized) territory. This means, Puerto Rico is not a country of its own.

Fact #2
In 1493, the world famous explorer, Christopher Columbus, discovered the island. The original name given by Columbus was San Juan Bautista, named after Saint John, the Baptist.

Fact #3
Did you know, that before Christopher Columbus, the Taino people (the indigenous natives of the island) named the island Borinquen, which meant the "Land of the Brave Lord"? Well, something to think about.

Fact #4
After the Spanish-American war ended, in the year 1898, the Treaty of Paris was signed. Puerto Rico (and other islets) were handed over to the U.S. and in 1917, the people of the island were given U.S. citizenship.

Fact #5
The two major languages spoken in and around the island are Spanish and English. Also, there are various ethnic groups such as whites, which are mostly from the Spanish origin, African Americans, Amerindians, Asians, and others.

Fact #6
The currency in Puerto Rico is United States Dollar but they denote it as either 'peso' or 'dolar'. Other than that, the dollar bills and coins have the same denominations.

Fact #7
The climate in Puerto Rico is constant most of the year as it hardly shifts below or above 70ºF or 80ºF, respectively. However, since the island is prone to hurricanes, the weather can change drastically.

Fact #8
While talking on sports, basketball, along with volleyball, and boxing are the most popular sports on the island. But the first sport to ever reach the islands was baseball.

Fact #9
Besides these world-renowned sports, another favorite pastime for people in Puerto Rico is the game of cockfighting. Although it is banned in most states in the U.S., this game is legal on the island and very much enjoyed.

Fact #10
The cuisine of Puerto Rico is a blend of influences from Taino Amerindians, Spanish and European countries, Africa, United States, South America, and British Caribbean colonies.

Fact #11
All religions are welcome in Puerto Rico as their Constitution gives ample freedom for people to choose their faiths accordingly. However, the majority of religions that people follow are Roman Catholic and Protestants.

Fact #12
The Puerto Rican culture is very complex, yet liberal. They greet one another with a kiss on the cheeks. In U.S., giving someone personal space is very important. On the contrary, in Puerto Rico, standing really close to another person while having a conversation is considered normal; in fact it is thought to be well-mannered.

Fact #13
While talking about music, Puerto Rico has a huge influence in music as well. It attains inspiration from the Spanish, African, Cuban, French, and Dominican Republic. Their native music consists of salsa, plena, seis, bomba, reggaeton, and hip hop.

Fact #14
Puerto Rico has its own little mascot - a little tree frog which is known as The Coqui, pronounced as Koh-kee. This tiny frog can only be located on the island and has become their symbol.

Fact #15
Since the island has a beautiful tropical weather annually, the best months to travel there are from December to April. And if you are planning a trip there in the future, make sure you avoid the months from June to November as it is considered as the hurricane season.

These were some Puerto Rico facts, not just for kids but for adults as well. If there are any other interesting facts about Puerto Rico which you would like share with us, please feel free to leave a comment below. Till then, adiós amigo.