Location & People: The Dominican Republic in the West Indies occupies the eastern two-thirds of Hispaniola, the second largest island of the Greater Antilles. Originally under Spain, the Dominican Republic became independent in 1844. The population is mainly composed of a mixed race of European (Spanish) and African blood.

Crops & Industry: The state is predominantly agricultural. The most important crops are sugarcane, coffee, cocoa, tobacco and rice. Industry: Sugar refining, textiles, cement.

Hurricane George struck the country in Sept., 1998. In 2003, Amelia Vega, was crowned Miss Universe.