Martinique

Martinique is a beautiful island in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It is part of France, and its people are French citizens. The island is known for Mount Pelee, an active volcano, and its rich Creole culture. Martinique has lush rainforests in the north and white sand beaches in the south.

Land and People

About 375,000 people live in Martinique. The capital is Fort-de-France. Mount Pelee in the north is an active volcano that towers over the island. The northern part is mountainous and green, while the southern part has drier land and sandy beaches.

Culture and Fun Facts

Martinique is famous for its rum, which many people say is among the best in the world. The island has a strong Creole culture with music, dance, and amazing food. In 1902, Mount Pelee erupted and destroyed the city of Saint-Pierre. Empress Josephine, the wife of Napoleon, was born on Martinique.

Fun Facts

• The 1902 eruption of Mount Pelee destroyed the city of Saint-Pierre and was one of the deadliest volcanic disasters in history.
• Martinique rum is protected by French law and must be made in a special way.
• Empress Josephine, who married Napoleon Bonaparte, was born on Martinique in 1763.

Did You Know?

When Mount Pelee erupted in 1902, it destroyed the entire city of Saint-Pierre in minutes. Only two people in the city survived, one of whom was a prisoner protected by the thick walls of his jail cell.