What formed the islands of the West Indies?

Reading Check pg 214:

The West Indies were formed by underwater volcanic activity that caused mountains to form, as well as push up limestone mountains. The islands formed by limestone mountains have little to none fertile soil. Meanwhile the volcanic islands have more fertile soil. Most islands of the West Indies are part of a mountain chain. This means that there was more volcanic activity in that area.

What is the major industry of the West Indies?

Reading Check pg 215:

The major industry in the West Indies is tourism. This is because of their warm summers and clean beaches. Another major industry is growing crops. The crops grown are sugarcane, tobacco, coffee, and bananas. The only problem is that once the growing season is over, the citizens of the West Indies either have to work for low pay or go elsewhere until the growing season starts again.

2. Region- What three archipelagos make up the West Indies?

The three archipelagos of the West Indies are the Bahamas, the Greater Antilles, and the Lesser Antilles.

3. HIstory- Name four groups who have influenced the culture of the Caribbean region.

Four groups who have influnced the West Indies are the Spaniards, the English, the French, and the Dutch. These cultures are what caused populations to rise in the West Indies. This is because there were mostly only native tribes living there.

4. How is Cuba different from every other country in the Western Hemisphere?