The U.S. Virgin Islands is a territory made up of three large islands and nearly 50 islets. Its tropical climate and beautiful beaches attract people from all over the world. Since Columbus landed on one of the islands in 1493, the area has had a stormy history. The islands were controlled by several European countries until Denmark made them colonies in the 1700s. These Danish colonies dominated the sugarcane industry and were a major part of the slave trade before slavery was abolished. The region became an unincorporated territory of the United States in 1917. Fascinating facts and colorful, scenic photographs will introduce readers to the U.S. Virgin Islands, past and present.