Montserrat

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Montserrat British overseas territory in the West Indies; a volcanic island in the Leeward Islands, Lesser Antilles; the capital and chief port is Plymouth. An active volcano in the Soufrière Hills dominates the island. Christopher Columbus. made the first European discovery in 1493. The British colonized in 1632. It formed part of the Leeward Island colony from 1871 until 1956, when it became a separate, dependent territory of the UK. In 1997, increased volcanic activity prompted the British government to offer aid to the remaining islanders for rehousing in the n or relocation to neighbouring islands. Industries: tourism, light industry and construction, offshore finance, cotton. Area: 102sq km (40sq mi). Pop. (2000) 13,000. See West Indies map

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Montserrat

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