284,000 (1996).

20.4 per sq km.

Nassau

171,542 (1990).

The Bahamas consist of 700 low-lying islands, mostly islets (cays or keys) and rocks. The whole archipelago extends 970km (500 miles) southeastward from the coast of Florida, surrounded by clear, colourful waters. The soil is thin, but on the more developed islands, cultivation has produced exotic flowers. On other islands are large areas of pine forest, rocky and barren land, swamp and unspoilt beaches. The Bahamas are divided into two oceanic features, the Little Bahama Bank and the Great Bahama Bank.

Constitutional monarchy. Gained independence in 1973. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor-General Sir Orville Turnquest since 1995. Head of Government: Prime Minister Hubert Alexander Ingraham since 1992.

The official and national language is English.

The three main Christian denominations are Baptist, Anglican and Roman Catholic.

GMT - 5.

120 volts AC, 60Hz