When was Dominica formed geologically?
Dominica first emerged from the sea during the Oligocene Epoch approximately 27 million years ago. It stands as one of the last Caribbean islands to be formed by volcanic activity.
Questions about Dominica
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who named Dominica and when did Christopher Columbus pass the island?
Christopher Columbus passed the island on Sunday the 3rd of November 1493 naming it Dominica after the Latin term for Sunday. The Kalinago displaced the Arawak people by the 15th century after arriving from South America in the fifth century.
What is the highest point on Dominica and what is its elevation?
The highest point on the island is Morne Diablotins at an elevation of 1,447 meters. Dominica is the most mountainous of the Lesser Antilles with peaks that are cones of lava craters including Morne aux Diables and Morne Anglais.
When did Dominica gain independence and who led the country initially?
Dominica gained independence as a republic on the 3rd of November 1978 led by Prime Minister Patrick John. Political discontent climaxed in mid-1979 causing a civilian coup that collapsed his administration.
Which bird species is found only on Dominica and serves as the national bird?
The sisserou parrot also known as imperial amazon is critically endangered and found only on Dominica. It serves as the national bird featured on the flag making Dominica one of two sovereign nations with purple on its official banner.
How much damage did Hurricane Maria cause to Dominica buildings and infrastructure?
Category 5 Hurricane Maria struck the 18th of September 2017 destroying 90% of buildings leaving infrastructure in ruins. Early estimates suggested losses of approximately US$930 million representing 226% of GDP.