Dominica explained to kids

Dominica, officially the Commonwealth of Dominica, is an island nation in the Caribbean. It is located south of Guadeloupe and northwest of Martinique. Its area is about 750 square kilometers (290 square miles), and the highest point is Morne Diablotins, which is 1,447 meters (4,747 feet) above sea level. The capital city is Roseau. Dominica has a population of about 71,000 people. The island was originally inhabited by the Kalinago people. Christopher Columbus landed on the island in 1493, and it became a French colony in 1635. The British took control of the island in 1763, and it became a part of the British Empire. Dominica became an independent nation in 1978. Dominica is a member of the United Nations, the Organization of American States, the Caribbean Community, and the Commonwealth of Nations. The climate of Dominica is tropical, and the island is lush and green. Dominica is known as the "Nature Island" because of its abundant plants and animals. Dominica is home to the world's second-largest boiling lake, Boiling Lake. Dominica's economy is mostly based on agriculture, tourism, and fishing. Dominica is a popular tourist destination because of its natural beauty. The island is also a popular destination for scuba diving and whale watching.