BAHAMAS, OR LUCAYOS

chain of coral islands, W. Indies, (20° 55’-27° 25’ N., 70° 30’-79° 20’ W.); belong to Britain; include 29 islands and 660 islets, about 20 being inhabited. Rock is porous, retaining moisture, hence soil fertiie. Bahamas produce maize, cotton, sisal hemp, pineapples, oranges, lemons, olives, tamarinds, etc.; sponges found in surrounding seas; import textiles, earthenware, gla , foods, etc.; principal exports, sponges, fruits, fibre; administered by governor, executive, and legisJative councils and representative a embly; government system of education. Islands were first land sighted by Columbus on his voyage of discovery; have belonged without interruption to Britain since 1783. Largest are Andros, Great Abaco, Great Bahama, and Great Inagua I. Cap. Na au, New Providence. Area. c. 4,400 sq. m.; pop. c. 56,000. See Map Wusr InpIEs.