Tristan da Cunha

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Tristan da Cunha

Tristan da Cunha is a remote group of volcanic islands in the south Atlantic Ocean. It is part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha. The main island, also called Tristan da Cunha, is the most isolated inhabited island in the world, lying approximately 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles) from the nearest inhabited land, Saint Helena, and 2,800 kilometers (1,750 miles) from the nearest continental land, South Africa.

Geography

Tristan da Cunha is located at coordinates 37°6′S 12°17′W. The archipelago consists of the main island of Tristan da Cunha, with an area of 98 square kilometers (38 square miles), and several uninhabited islands: Inaccessible Island, Nightingale Island, and the Gough Island. The islands are volcanic in origin, with the main island featuring a central volcanic cone, Queen Mary's Peak, which reaches an elevation of 2,062 meters (6,765 feet).

History

The islands were first discovered in 1506 by the Portuguese explorer Tristão da Cunha, after whom they are named. The first recorded landing was made in 1643 by the crew of the Dutch ship Heemstede. The islands were annexed by the United Kingdom in 1816 to prevent them from being used as a base for any potential rescue of Napoleon Bonaparte from Saint Helena.

Population

The population of Tristan da Cunha is approximately 250 people, all of whom live in the settlement of Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, the only village on the island. The inhabitants are primarily of British descent, with some mixed ancestry from Italian, Dutch, and American whalers who visited the island in the 19th century.

Economy

The economy of Tristan da Cunha is based on subsistence farming, fishing, and the sale of postage stamps and coins to collectors. The islanders also engage in limited tourism and the export of crayfish (lobster) to South Africa.

Governance

Tristan da Cunha is a dependency of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha. It is governed by an Administrator appointed by the Governor of Saint Helena. The island has its own Island Council, which advises the Administrator on local matters.

Climate

The climate of Tristan da Cunha is classified as oceanic, with mild temperatures and high humidity. The average annual temperature is around 15°C (59°F), with little variation between summer and winter. The island experiences frequent rain and strong winds.

Flora and Fauna

Tristan da Cunha is home to a unique ecosystem with several endemic species of plants and animals. The islands are an important breeding ground for seabirds, including the Tristan albatross and the Atlantic petrel. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, including seals and whales.

Also see

• Saint Helena
• Ascension Island
• British Overseas Territories
• Volcanic Islands
• Remote Islands