I'm from Guam and I really appreciate the brief positivity you've given to my small island paradise. I would love to watch a more in depth video about the 5 major territories. Keep pumping out great videos!!!
I have had interest in visiting. This bit of info has me even more interested. I did not know for certain currency was the same. Gonna plan a trip then.
I was lucky enough to visit Guam twice. So gorgeous. I had a picture I took of the beach at Tumon Bay blown up and framed, and have it in my living room. And I still have a small jar of black sand from Talofofo beach :)
I taught in Korea for 2 years, and a lot of my students had been to Guam. One of my students said, "Teacher, my mom tricked me. I told her I wanted to go to the USA, so she agreed. She took me to Guam." Well, technically.... 😅
Also, you could have mentioned that the facilities on Midway Island and Wake Island were developed in the 1930s by Pan American World Airlines as stopover points for their famous China Clipper flying boat service. Both had nice full service hotels for passengers. Even later, both islands had jet service into the 1970s when Boeing 707s couldn't cross the entire Pacific without refueling stops. It's sort of sad that both are entirely abandoned now.
I always find it sad to see midway, Jonson island and wake island. Ones where the home to thousands and today totally abandoned. The history and everything. Find it really sad
I also heard him say they are abandoned, but it could not be further from the truth. I'm typing this from my room here on Wake Island. I spent Christmas here with about another 100 contractors and Air Force personnel. Midway is not abandoned either, but I believe only 15-20 contractors are there.
Briggs, thank you for putting this video together. Proud to be from Guam while serving and retiring from the United States Army! I wish more people could view this video of the American Territories. After so many years of traveling abroad, there are still times when customs and immigrations will ask what is our citizenship (happened last month) while presenting our U.S. passport. I’ll say I’m an American, then the follow up questions will start: - what business do you have here? - where did you come from? When we say Guam, their come back is, see you did come from a foreign country. (Sad) Years ago when my brother and I were buying tobacco from the store at the gas station, the cashier asked us for our drivers license and said they couldn’t sell to us because we were foreigners and needed a stateside drivers license because they couldn’t verify that our ID cards were legit. I’ve ranted but those are just a few ignorant people that we have encountered. I love this great nation and would serve again if called to do so! Proud to be an American!! Thanks again for letting me rant. Love what you do, here on RUclips. God bless.
That must be so frustrating! I’m glad I saw this video because it definitely helped educate me, I want to plan a trip to Guam. Thank you for serving our country 🇺🇸
I was roommates in college with someone who was born and raised in American Samoa. He was absolutely huge! Of course he played football at ASU. This guy looked like a tank but was one of the nicest person I have ever met! The guy looked like he could rip you in half but wouldn't hurt a fly. His friends from Somoa were also gigantic as well but the nicest people!
Please more videos on US Territories, they are far too often overlooked. These gorgeous tropical islands are filled with much history (often complex history), breathtaking biodiversity & landscapes. Those residing on the inhabited islands are just as American as the rest of the US.
Agree, I last employed a USA public Library and USPS snail mail to obtain an employment application and job description. Found within Micronesia. :Protected by US Labor Laws. My parent enjoyed USA contracted civilian hire world-wide for 30 years,
Been to Porto Rica. Not pleasant experience. Was there on a sailboat to get repairs. They hate the US as blame Trump for everything. I hope they do not become state. The US wants them for votes for democrats and taxes.
Please if you want to talk about my island puerto rico please Do your research better PR doesn't have the Island puerto Rico wich its the main bug island 🏝 we also got another island call Vieques and another island call Culebra wich got their own towns courts municipal police and Mayer
My great grandparents were Chamorro and lived most their lives on Guam up until WW2 when Japan attacked and they took my great tata prisoner. He eventually made it back home to my family (who made their way to southern California) but no one will tell me exactly what happened because his years as a prisoner were too gruesome to tell. All I’ve heard was my mom telling me she remembered he came back with a hole in his face… it saddens me they didn’t get to live the last of their years back on the island but one day I hope to visit Guam in their honor
I’d love to visit there too. Maybe live there. The job situation seems scarce though. I always try to tell my friends about the u.s territories, it almost a disgrace a lot of people don’t know about them. There as much apart of the U.S as the 50 states.
Living there now. No easy jobs available. Current active military. Life is chill. No real violence or anything. Food is GREAT. Culture is cool. The Chamorro history is cool too. Worth it to spend maybe a week here to take advantage of beaches and diving. Might cost you less with an international passport and flying from the Philippines to Guam instead of straight from the US. It’s like $2,000 for a flight average
We, as US citizens and nationals, should start supporting our main territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Islands) by vacationing there instead of on non-US soil.
@@jackrose2795 You got a problem with goods being shipped between US ports being required to be transported on ships built, owned, and operated by US citizens???
@@meekawolff yes because it hurts my people the Puerto Rican people, in the united states you are not under the Jones act the people of Puerto Rico cannot afford to be under the colonial Jones act it is wrong we must pay extra for everything we buy the Jones act is a colonial bygone act the united states government imposes on Puerto Rico to make the u s.shipping companies wealthy while the people of Puerto Rico live in poverty.
@@jaydream9646 yeah it’s pretty stupid you should either be a state or independent but republicans would never let Puerto Rico be a state because it would be very heavily democrat and they don’t want that. and no one will let you be independent
I didn’t realize there were 14. I usually think of the territories as being Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
I was watching CirstenW today, where she showed the list of governors of the states and territories, whether they were Dems or Reps, first I knew US had 14 territories. Being from Canada 🇨🇦 I'm sure I learned that.
This was very informative. I didn't know we had 14 territories, I thought it was only five. I'd be interested in more in-depth information about the five.
I'M SO GLAD YOU STARTED WITH GUAM!!!! Yes! Guam is wonderful. They had a lot of earthquake damage that fudged up their tourism but the people of Guam are wonderful. They suffered terribly during WWII so their Independence celebration is enjoyed by 100% of the population including the US military. I was a Navy "Inspector", the units were great and motivated but I got wonderful tattoos, lots of .....well I had a good time. I'm happily married and my wife knows everything I did and wants to visit Guam. The only bad thing about Guam is the plane ride is LONG.
I lived on Guam for 2 years. Great people, culture, food and stunning beaches. I lived on 4 islands in my life and Guam was my favorite. I'm married now to a Filipino lady and we have a 7 year old son. We will move to Guam sometime in 2024
I visited Guam on business for 3 months and it was the best time abroad I have ever had. I love that place and its people are amazing. I was a local restaurant by myself. A local and I started talking and he invited me to a beach BBQ, he and his high school friends have been doing for the past 30+ years. I was floored and how friendly they are.
As a native Chamorro, I acknowledge the political status as the single difference between the CNMI and Guam. A manifestation of post World War II and external influences. We are one people, in culture and heritage. It would be interesting to reference one with the other. Incredible series of videos. Si Yu'us Ma'ase!
If you ever have the funds to go to Guam, go to Guam. Snorkeling there is like swimming in a bathtub. Hafa Adai ("hof-a-day") is their version of Aloha!
I was lucky enough to have lived on Midway back in the 60's for a few years. Also visit Wake & Johnson Islands several times. My dad was a NASA engineer overseeing the Pacific Missile Range. Also got to see an Atomic Test from Johnson Island. Exciting childhood to be sure.
It's cool to get older and realize you are a part of history. Small town here but enlisted at 17. Over 20 years abroad now and still exploring! (long since retired). Good story! Thx
My dad broke his leg on Johnson Island and was flown to the hospital in Hawaii the day Hawaii became a state in 1959. He was on Johnson Island for one year.
When I was in the Army, we had a lot of Samoan and Guamanian recruits. And that was back in 69-71. Fort Ord. Hey, maybe a video on closed Army/military bases in the U.S.?
Fort Ord is now the growing town of Marina, CA. Lots of new construction and tear down of old buildings. California State University-Monterey Bay also sits on what was the base. Though the base does not exist anymore, you can still shop at the commissary.
@@rromero9763 everyone I met from American Samoa in the army absolutely loves it there. They have a strong national pride there so a lot of them serve. But I never met on that wasn’t excited about going home.
Traffic drives on the left in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the only U.S. jurisdiction where this is the rule. Apparently, this is a hold-over from before transfer from Denmark to the U.S. in 1917 due to British influence in the Caribbean. Most vehicles in the USVI are the same as in the U.S. domestic market with left-hand drive.
@@marvinbrando722 How did the US steal them from the British when the British never owned them in the first place. Denmark owned what is now the US Virgin Islands. The US bought the Virgin Islands from Denmark for around $25 million dollars around the end of World War One. Britain annexed the British Virgin Islands from the Dutch.
The USVI was owned by 7 countries in total. So there is a ton left over from each. Including the side of the road that is driven. All rental cars come with the reminders 😹
An interesting post. In the mid 1960s I served aboard a US Navy ship with its homeport in Guam. We routinely patrolled the Northern Mariana Islands as well as Trust Territories of the Pacific, mostly the Caroline Islands. We visited Pago Samoa. The US Samoa Island and Guam are quite beautiful. On my flight to Guam my plane landed in Wake. Some of our patrol assignments included barrier patrols, extensions of the DEW Line, part of the early warning system for the US.
Awesome story sir. It reminds me exactly of My dad almost. My dad was in the Navy as well in the 1960's and was stationed in Peurto Rico 🇵🇷. He did Communications on an Aircraft Carrier. He just died 2 weeks ago at 79. We miss him alot and are still grieving. We are going through alot of his things from when he was in PR for those 4 years in the military.
Thank you very much sir! I am glad you have always had positive experiences with Guam (my roots) and its people. As a mainland Chamorro it is always nice for me to hear visitors say nice things about my home. Si Yu'us Maase
I've always wanted to go to Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and The U.S. Virgin Islands. But wow, I didn't know we have more U.S. territories than that. Briggs videos are always good, but this one's gonna be extra interesting.
@Jet Li Wrong ☝🏾As far as Puerto Rico, it's larger than Hawaii with one major International Airport and two regional airports on it's Main Island ☝🏾🇺🇸🇵🇷
How about the united states going away and stopping imperialism and colonialism in 1897 Puerto Rico was granted autonomy by Spain giving Puerto Rico the same status as Canada has with the U k. but the united states invaded.
@@danielcarroll3358 the Puerto Rican people want to control their own economy the united states with the Jones act maintains total economic control, the Puerto Ricans cannot not live in the united states economy system they are voting for food stamps and welfare benefits you are not Puerto Rican I am I know my people you don't you are a very simple american who cannot think we'll.
@@jackrose2795 You didn't notice that I said "if the Puerto Ricans want it"? I have no right to make the determination of status quo, statehood or independence. I merely pointed out that the Republicans would be opposed to statehood because Puerto Rico would probably vote Democrat, that is all.
Having been stationed in Guam with the Air Force, I can attest to the kindness of the Chamorran people, Hafa Adai. Went to a little town on the south end of the Island, Merizo, to a festival and the people took my family and I into their homes feed us and gave us beverages so nice. It is just so expensive to get their, but a beautiful island with great weather.
@@williamludlow3788 because the man has a desire to fulfill something but he can't because he is retired. Im taking it upon myself to study to become a Country School teacher so I can help him accomplish his goal since I'm younger and more moldable/eager to work. People help eachother reach their goals where I'm from (Japan). I speak fluent English even though it is my second language thanks to a Country School teacher in my small village.
@@GarlicNoji Woah... That's the nicest thing I've ever seen someone say to someone else on YT probably ever. You are a truly wonderful person who spreads a lot of positivity and join to the comment sections and the world overall. Your family must be proud of you! Youre a role model to everyone here comrade!! Also, thank you for making anime a thing!! KAWAII SUGOI~~!! XX 🇯🇵✌️🍣
The one I live on is the Dominican Republic also beautiful. Not a territory.. but it is the largest tourist destination in the carribean and is next to Puerto Pico and the virgin islands
Sweet vid. The U.S.V.I will always be home. It's very expensive to live. Living & fuel costs are always high. Electricity is expensive and unstable. We have the most costly kilowatt/hr in the U.S. You can retire there if you have a money tree or a golden egg laying goose. The people & place itself is wonderful, for the most part. Don't be disillusioned thinking you'll build a "cottage" on a beach for cheap, or even find cheap rent. I could go on & on.
@@joselassalle5906 Puerto Rico is WAY more affordable than Virgin Islands. Virgin Islands has crazy expensive neighborhoods like every where. It reminds me of parts of North Jersey, where entire towns have houses so expensive that it'll make you 🤮 Lol. I don't normally hate on wealthy people. 😆 I'm not even a "tax the rich" type person. But USVI and North Jersey are the only two places I've ever seen where entire neighborhoods had ridiculously expensive housing that I wanted to vomit. Lol. God bless their residents! Puerto Rico has some rich neighborhoods. Not as many as Virgin Islands. Same thing with Pennsylvania next door. PA has some wealthy neighborhoods. But not nearly as many as North Jersey. It's just crazy how much wealth you'll find in places like Jackson, where Six Flags is located.
BRIGGS I HAVE BEEN A SUB SINCE DAY 1. YOU ARE ONE OF THE MOST INFORMED AND INTERESTING HOSTS ON RUclips. I’VE FOLLOWED YOUR EXPANSION WITH MUCH APPRECIATION AS PROGRAMS GET BETTER AND BETTER. THE GIFT YOU PROVIDE IS A RICHER UNDERSTANDING OF OUR COUNTRY AND WORLD. YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR IS AS DRY AS THE SAHARA AND EVEN OCC. FUNNY. KEEP UP THE EXCELLENT WORK
Sharing this, is interesting. I'm from Puerto Rico(and live here). So much going on in the island. No all of us want to be a state. But everything is part of our history and I'll love to know more about every territory is the same position as us.
@@brianjschumer We have voted to become a state, so that means we are willing to pay taxes. Until we become one, we can't. And the US seems to have no interest in letting us join. But we aren't ethnically white or super rich so that ain't happening soon.
@@AngryNegativeHistoryProject The people were great, always friendly & helpful. The beaches were beautiful. I never saw a cookie cutter home, they were all unique. There was a huge park in San Juan where families would go for picnics & flying kites. The tile mosaics used on buildings & homes were always vibrant and alive. The rainforest was a wonderful place to explore.
Hi Briggs!! I would be very interested in a video on the main US territories. Especially Puerto Rico. I am thinking about moving there in a couple of years when I retire. I love your videos and look forward to them!!!!
Referencing one of your first statements in your video. Years ago our family was visiting Mount Rushmore from Canada. There is an Avenue of States down the middle but I noticed there were 56 flags. So I asked a park ranger why there were six extra flags. He said they were for the US territories. He then asked me if I knew what they were. I only knew 5 (Guam, American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Northern Mariana Islands).. He told me the sixth was a collective term for and called the Minor Outlying Islands. He then said "You must be a Canadian." I asked how he knew, was it my accent? He said it was because I knew the territories. He said that American citizens might get 2 or 3 but rarely more than that. Canadians always tended to get more. I'm not sure why that is as I don't remember studying the US territories in school. BTW in grade school we used to study a map of the USA and all the capitals. I don't know if that is still the case as you have to wonder why a kid raised in Nova Scotia would need to know the capital in Nevada. (Carson City) BUT it was the reason I knew Pierre was the capital of South Dakota before I first visited. :-)
That's funny and sad at the same time. Funny that a Canadian knew more about my country than most of my countrymen do. I mean, Canadians can even sing our anthem. Sad because I don't know the capital cities of most of the 50 states. But I'm humbled and grateful to know that y'all take an interest in learnin about the US. ❤️
There is no separate flag for the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands, it is just the standard Stars and Stripes. The sixth flag there should've been for the District of Columbia (DC). The MOI are such because they have no permanent population and frequently are either restricted because of contamination or, in the case of at least Palmyra, a nature reserve. I remember fantasizing about BUYING Palmyra Atoll back in the late 1970s or early 1980s when it was listed for sale. It now is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife agency, with the exception of Cooper Island, which is owned by the Nature Conservancy.
People in continental United States do not know what they are missing out on. They do not know that without a passport your can enjoy the world by going to these territories. They are very beautiful and the food at these places are delicious. Plus thank you Briggs for this video I have been wanting to see this for a while now.
@Christine Vinas Yeah? I had a French teacher in HS that was St. Thomas, so I've been intrigued since then..I'm making way on my list to get there. Greetings from Florida!
@cv I wanna go to the Caribbean for it's obviously abounding in beautiful birds, fish, fresh air, and high beauty. One does need financial independence to move down there and then tourism is tricky where if you don't take a cruise package, you might be lucky enough to hitch a ride on a mail boat. The fishing and seafood is probably so divine. We have nothing like that in Utah and Nevada, but I was watching snorkeling for lobster in the Keys today which is lovely to get your yacht wet if you're in the money though it does look like there are some serious geopolitical issues going on down that way for the USA didn't secure Cuba and unite the countries South of the border so we'd all have peace, safety, and prosperity instead of conflict, crime, and violence.
@@Worldofourown2024 you can get to the virgin islands besides a crews. They have flights to and from them leaving out of Florida or you can get a smaller boat to take you there. Also the driver of the conflict with our southern neighbors isn't because we didn't take them over earlier in our history (see manifest destiny), we did take almost half of Mexico during that foray. Cuba is because of our differences with communism and the conflict with what's left of Mexico, is because of Americans' love of drugs. Why America hasn't figured out that this type of prohibition isn't working any better than the type they tried with alcohol, is beyond me. If we could figure out a better way to tax and regulate the recreational drug market, 90% or better of that violence down there would go away.
That's due to the fact that the Northern Marianas Islands chose to become a U.S. commonwealth. Hence, their new name is the CNMI (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).
@@Noland55 Yes, they were. Saipan was the capital of the Trust Territories until they decided to break away and become a commonwealth in the 1980's. I believe in '85. But don't quote me on that. Just a guess.
@@Plutonium2000 You heard wrong. Guam became a U.S. Territory long before Northern Marianas became a Trust Territory. Then after Northern Marianas became a commonwealth, Guam tried to do the same but Washington D.C. said no.
When I was in the service in 1960 I got to see some of these islands. We had refueling stops in Midway and when I was stationed in Japan I enjoyed TDY trips to the Philippines, Guam, and a number of other islands and countries. Guam was unique in that I only had about one day of work on the island but military aircraft that carried passengers only came and left once a week, so I had a nice vacation. It rained almost every day for a couple of hours. They had an outdoor theater for us GI's and we would go and see a movie in our swimming trunks because we would usually enjoy an evening shower. The island was loaded with coconut crabs. I was then stationed in Hawaii for about 9 months in 1962 and one could see nuclear explosions at night from the Johnston island testing grounds. Some of the small ones looked like lighting and the large ones lit up the whole sky. We would go on the roof of the barracks and listen to the countdown and wait for the flash.
To add to your comments about the USVI. There was a naval base in St. Thomas for decades. It was a submarine base which the locals to this day call "sub-base". Along with Vieques, PR, the USVI had a strong connection to the war efforts during WWII.
Very interesting video. Could you do one on the several countries that are in "Free Association" with the United States? I believe three of such countries are Palau, Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia (and there might be one or two others). While a few other countries in the world use the American Dollar, these countries banks are FDIC insured, they use the US Postal Service and I believe our US Military is obligated to protect them (I might be wrong on this). Thanks
Thanks for that very informatinve video of the US territories. I grew up on Wake island from the 60's and early 70's until they closed it down and changed commands to the Air Force in 1972. Before then, there was a population of about 2,000 people with with 600 of them being families with children. The rest were maintenance crew, military personnel, and contractors. At the time the Federal Aviation Administration ran the island. Wake was attacked immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor. It took the Japanese 11 days to capture the Island, but it was also where they suffered their first major loss, with the US Military and civilians fighting them off and sinking 4 of their ships. After the Japanese took over the Island, they sent most of the prisoners of war to Japan and China leaving 98 men to build their bunkers and trenches. They were later killed by the Japanese.
I spent 25 months on Guam during my time in the Navy working at NAS Agana.(1981-1983) I loved it! The culture and the people are very interesting with all their Fiesta's based on Catholicism. The locals treated me great. I've heard it has changed much and not so desirable. Hard to believe from what I experienced. Thanks, Briggs.
Of all the territories Guam is most important due to its relative short distance to Asia. If the US should ever lose this island again you know the US is in major economic decline as it takes $ to support these overseas territories. America’s greatness is directly tied to its economy so when that goes south so does its influence. China knows this!
I was stationed on Midway from 1977 thru 1979. It is called Midway because it is almost perfectly equally distant between North America and Asia. It was also used as a Pan Am clipper sea plane base route from the US & Japan. I loved my tour there.
This is a great video! No one ever seems to mention that the US has, not just some well known territories, but some special (even if empty) islands as well.
In the mid 80's to mid 90's I used to land at Johnston Atoll on my way from Honolulu to Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands (U.S. Army Ballistic Missile Test Range) where I worked for several years. At the time Johnston was still being used to burn the U.S. stockpile of chemical & biological weapons. As we slowed down after landing we were joined on the runway by 2 Humvee's, one on either side, with locked & loaded .50 caliber machine guns pointed directly at the aircraft. They didn't mess around with security. Also been to Guam & all the Northern Marianas.
He was a Sargent and got all his back pay because he never abandoned his post. He got old so the authorities dug him out of his spider hole and shipped him back to Japan. There he married and honeymooned on Guam.
I have family who lived on Saipan he was a U.S. government employee, she worked as a machine operator supervisor. When he moved she wouuld worked the same job in their next city. She is selling their lake retirement home as I watch this video and sadly moving to assisted living or in with my mother. Love watching you videos.
I’m from Saipan, and I can’t help but to agree to everything you said about it. Even though I left my home island a while ago, I do still yearn to return there. It’s a beautiful island and no other places I’ve seen can beat it.
Do y'all speak Spanish on Saipan? And I agree with you 100% when you said it's a beautiful island. Any tropical island is beautiful compared to where I'm from, simply because it never gits humid nor buried in snow. Well, whatever reason made you move away from paradise I hope you'll be able to go back and enjoy it agin.
I asked a friend of mine to describe Saipan to me and she said, "...Saipan is a beautiful rock made more beautiful by its people with their unique culture and warm hospitality." Now, that type of description would make anyone wanna visit Saipan.👍
@@andysnyder4506 Dang! You sayin them folks from Saipan are multilingual? I aint never heard of a country whose people could speak 6 languages. I am seriously impressed! 👍
@@meekawolff let's put it this way, Saipan is a small community with various other ethnic groups living there as well. The local (indigenous) people speak English, chamorro and carolinian.
This was a really good one to see. I've been wondering about the US territories. I knew Guam has had a major US military since WW11 and Puerto Rico is struggling financially since their last big hurricane. But, other than that, Yes, I'd be interested in more about the tip 5.
Ben Carson and Dtrump agriculture bill thats what terrorizing these islands not no hurricane !!! Bunch of hidden agenda's in the bill that allows CBP ,HSI, and courts to loot these places !!!
Guam is actually way, or far, east. The eastern, northern and western most parts of the US are in Alaska. The Aleutian Islands cross the antimeridian at 180 degrees and this is where east and west are divided. Love your videos!!
Anyone else miss when he used to say "and I am Briggs" at the end when he said, "what is going on everyone, welcome back to world according to Briggs"..."and I am Briggs".........or is it just me lol
I’m from Puerto Rico and have been living in the US mainland for 4 years now. I had to move because jobs are scarce and barely pay anything at all. Plus, you gotta outside towns like mine to get a ‘better’ chance to find a job. My Puerto Rico is gorgeous. It’s a shame so many of us had to move out due to the corrupt government there not doing anything to fix the economy.
@@Andrew-df1dr I admittedly don’t really know about how the economy works so I’m honestly not sure on whether it would be better for PR to be an independent nation, a state or remain as a territory. What I’m definitely sure of is that even as a territory PR could’ve been economically great anyway if it’s government had never been corrupt and did their job right.
We feel the same way up here in Alaska. Alaska is so different than Puerto Rico, Alaska's huge, but Puerto Rico has two million more people than our state. And let's not forget the weather. But, that's a different yet understandable story. lol. But, the jobs up here are so scarce. So, thousands of people have already left because of that reason. But, when I first visited the mainland for the first time, I felt so distant from everyone. lol. I felt weird. Well, I did go to Miami so maybe that's why lol.
A good friend of mine currently lives in Guam! He worked for the US Weather Service, which transferred him there from southern Alaska (big weather change) in 2001! There, he met & married a woman from the Philippines & is now enjoying his retirement on this beautiful island! He just called me last week & the place sounds great!
A little known fact about American Samoa: American Samoans are not U.S. citizens. They have the unique distinction of being 'U.S. Nationals', but not U.S. citizens. As U.S. nationals, they carry U.S. passports, and are fully allowed to live and work in any part of the United States or its territories and districts, but their passports do come with the notation that the bearer of the passport is a U.S. national, but not a U.S. citizen. A very quirky distinction.
American Samoa are just freeloaders on U.S taxpayers. They have no strategic or economic value to the U.S in this modern day and age. The only country in the world that was given a chance to become an independent sovereign nation but refused. That free federal money too sweet aye 😂
@@RogersMgmtGroup Ah yes idiots in here not knowing anything. It was the Samoans that requested they not be made American citizens, not the US. American Samoa has a number of cultural practices in its laws that would be illegal under the US constitution should Samoans be US citizens by birth, things like blood quanta laws and protection from eminent domain. It has been the American Samoan government that has repeatedly filed briefs to US courts requesting Samoans not be given birthright citizenship and to maintain the status quo of national.
@@lahaes excuse me. DO some research we have the highest rate per capita of enlistment in the US Military. So the lives of our soldiers are not freeloading on nothing they earn it.
Naturalized citizen from a US Territory. Love your video. Born and raised in American Samoa, joined the military and now living in US.
Thanks for your service ❤ 🇺🇸 😁👍
Makes no sense how people of American Samoa aren’t US Citizens
Any insight into why military enlistment from there is so high? Besides patriotism, is it just a lack of other opportunities?
@@JoshStrickland-n8x how is he doing now? I'd imagine an experience like that would leave a very sour taste in his mouth.
Visited in the 80’s, beautiful place, great people.
I'm from Guam and I really appreciate the brief positivity you've given to my small island paradise. I would love to watch a more in depth video about the 5 major territories. Keep pumping out great videos!!!
Always nice to see other people from Guam on the internet
makes this little island paradise we live on feel much bigger
I have had interest in visiting. This bit of info has me even more interested. I did not know for certain currency was the same. Gonna plan a trip then.
I wish I could go to Guam. My stepdad was there in WWII after the Japanese were defeated. He always wanted to go back, but never got to.
I was lucky enough to visit Guam twice. So gorgeous. I had a picture I took of the beach at Tumon Bay blown up and framed, and have it in my living room. And I still have a small jar of black sand from Talofofo beach :)
As a native Guamanian, what is your opinion of statehood? Would you like Guam to become a state? Or would you rather have independence?
I taught in Korea for 2 years, and a lot of my students had been to Guam. One of my students said, "Teacher, my mom tricked me. I told her I wanted to go to the USA, so she agreed. She took me to Guam." Well, technically.... 😅
Lol
LOL
We used to say Guam was where the day began in the US.
@@bufyc1779 If not Guam, then where else?
Aint Guam and the Northern Marianas in the same time zone?
Also, you could have mentioned that the facilities on Midway Island and Wake Island were developed in the 1930s by Pan American World Airlines as stopover points for their famous China Clipper flying boat service. Both had nice full service hotels for passengers. Even later, both islands had jet service into the 1970s when Boeing 707s couldn't cross the entire Pacific without refueling stops. It's sort of sad that both are entirely abandoned now.
Totally agree
Disagree. Both these old planes are just old....airlines and passengers are better off flying the modern planes.
I always find it sad to see midway, Jonson island and wake island. Ones where the home to thousands and today totally abandoned. The history and everything. Find it really sad
I also heard him say they are abandoned, but it could not be further from the truth. I'm typing this from my room here on Wake Island. I spent Christmas here with about another 100 contractors and Air Force personnel. Midway is not abandoned either, but I believe only 15-20 contractors are there.
Briggs, thank you for putting this video together. Proud to be from Guam while serving and retiring from the United States Army! I wish more people could view this video of the American Territories. After so many years of traveling abroad, there are still times when customs and immigrations will ask what is our citizenship (happened last month) while presenting our U.S. passport. I’ll say I’m an American, then the follow up questions will start:
- what business do you have here?
- where did you come from?
When we say Guam, their come back is, see you did come from a foreign country. (Sad) Years ago when my brother and I were buying tobacco from the store at the gas station, the cashier asked us for our drivers license and said they couldn’t sell to us because we were foreigners and needed a stateside drivers license because they couldn’t verify that our ID cards were legit. I’ve ranted but those are just a few ignorant people that we have encountered. I love this great nation and would serve again if called to do so! Proud to be an American!! Thanks again for letting me rant. Love what you do, here on RUclips. God bless.
That must be so frustrating! I’m glad I saw this video because it definitely helped educate me, I want to plan a trip to Guam. Thank you for serving our country 🇺🇸
@@davidfoarde558 thank you for your comment and blessings to you. Hope you have an amazing time on Guam!!
For what it's worth, thank you for your service 🇺🇲 I'm grateful ❤
Sending love from NJ 🫶🏼
@@CandiceMMartinez Thank you for the love and kind words. You are an encouragement for me today. Blessings to you! ❤️
I was roommates in college with someone who was born and raised in American Samoa. He was absolutely huge! Of course he played football at ASU. This guy looked like a tank but was one of the nicest person I have ever met! The guy looked like he could rip you in half but wouldn't hurt a fly. His friends from Somoa were also gigantic as well but the nicest people!
Same, no one would mess with us because of my Samoan friends when we went out. Super cool people, built like tanks. No one wanted the smoke.
GO SUN DEVILS!!!!
As someone from California can I move to a US Territory?
@@fremontpathfinder8463you could but if ur trying to buy a house in Samoa you have to be at least 1% Samoan to own a land or build a house.
Elizabeth Warren said she’s part Somoan
Briggs ALWAYS gets something super interesting to me every month. Love it here
Please more videos on US Territories, they are far too often overlooked. These gorgeous tropical islands are filled with much history (often complex history), breathtaking biodiversity & landscapes. Those residing on the inhabited islands are just as American as the rest of the US.
Wrong. Taxation without representation is THE most un-American thing ever. And a lack of school shootings also separates them from CONUS, H and A.
Agree, I last employed a USA public Library and USPS snail mail
to obtain an employment application and job description. Found
within Micronesia. :Protected by US Labor Laws. My parent
enjoyed USA contracted civilian hire world-wide for 30 years,
Been to Porto Rica. Not pleasant experience. Was there on a sailboat to get repairs. They hate the US as blame Trump for everything. I hope they do not become state. The US wants them for votes for democrats and taxes.
Amen and Amen
Please if you want to talk about my island puerto rico please Do your research better PR doesn't have the Island puerto Rico wich its the main bug island 🏝 we also got another island call Vieques and another island call Culebra wich got their own towns courts municipal police and Mayer
Thanks!
Thank you for supporting the channel.
My great grandparents were Chamorro and lived most their lives on Guam up until WW2 when Japan attacked and they took my great tata prisoner. He eventually made it back home to my family (who made their way to southern California) but no one will tell me exactly what happened because his years as a prisoner were too gruesome to tell. All I’ve heard was my mom telling me she remembered he came back with a hole in his face… it saddens me they didn’t get to live the last of their years back on the island but one day I hope to visit Guam in their honor
I’d love to visit there too. Maybe live there. The job situation seems scarce though. I always try to tell my friends about the u.s territories, it almost a disgrace a lot of people don’t know about them. There as much apart of the U.S as the 50 states.
Hope you get to visit there hun
Living there now. No easy jobs available. Current active military. Life is chill. No real violence or anything. Food is GREAT. Culture is cool. The Chamorro history is cool too. Worth it to spend maybe a week here to take advantage of beaches and diving. Might cost you less with an international passport and flying from the Philippines to Guam instead of straight from the US. It’s like $2,000 for a flight average
The Japanese were extremely cruel to the residents of Guam during WWII.
That is why I celebrate only two holidays a year. And they are holidays that I created. August 6th and August 9th. Happy Hiroshima and Nagasaki day.
Count my vote as a “yes” for more info on US Territories.
Read Nelson Denis war against all Puerto Ricans.
We, as US citizens and nationals, should start supporting our main territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Islands) by vacationing there instead of on non-US soil.
@@meekawolff how about the united states end the Jones act and going away.
@@jackrose2795 You got a problem with goods being shipped between US ports being required to be transported on ships built, owned, and operated by US citizens???
@@meekawolff yes because it hurts my people the Puerto Rican people, in the united states you are not under the Jones act the people of Puerto Rico cannot afford to be under the colonial Jones act it is wrong we must pay extra for everything we buy the Jones act is a colonial bygone act the united states government imposes on Puerto Rico to make the u s.shipping companies wealthy while the people of Puerto Rico live in poverty.
Great summary, especially on Puerto Rico. I would love to see a more in depth video series on these territories.
You used the same video for Guam as you did for Belize?!
As a Puerto Rican we want our independence
@@jaydream9646 yeah it’s pretty stupid you should either be a state or independent but republicans would never let Puerto Rico be a state because it would be very heavily democrat and they don’t want that. and no one will let you be independent
@@jaydream9646 speak for yourself not for others.
@@jaydream9646 same. We dont want to be a state. Only white people think that. You become a state, And you become a target 👀
I didn’t realize there were 14. I usually think of the territories as being Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
Same. Those are the few that I can name off the top of my head.
Me too. I didnt' know there are U.S. territories that are uninhabited..
@@levytorregrosaoliver6716
And that's the gist of it because territories we're supposed to be unpopulated and not highly populated places in the world
Those are the ones with people on them.
I was watching CirstenW today, where she showed the list of governors of the states and territories, whether they were Dems or Reps, first I knew US had 14 territories. Being from Canada 🇨🇦 I'm sure I learned that.
This was very informative. I didn't know we had 14 territories, I thought it was only five. I'd be interested in more in-depth information about the five.
Well, we really only have ~7 or so as he divided multiple administrated territories into their own bit of video when in reality they are not.
@@w8stralwe have 14
Uh, no we don't. Guam/Marinas is 1 not 2 just for starters. Same goes for many other idiotic divisions he spouted. @@ZBisson
THE TERRITORY OF GUAM IS #1.
2.COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS IS 2
3. AMERICAN
SAMOA
4. VIRGIN ISLANDS
5. PUERTO RICO
I'M SO GLAD YOU STARTED WITH GUAM!!!! Yes! Guam is wonderful. They had a lot of earthquake damage that fudged up their tourism but the people of Guam are wonderful. They suffered terribly during WWII so their Independence celebration is enjoyed by 100% of the population including the US military. I was a Navy "Inspector", the units were great and motivated but I got wonderful tattoos, lots of .....well I had a good time. I'm happily married and my wife knows everything I did and wants to visit Guam. The only bad thing about Guam is the plane ride is LONG.
I entered the USA at Guam I was in the Philippines, and made our first stop in Guam before going to Hawaii than to the USA mainland
Love Guam, but fully agree about flight times. Flying from Florida takes us practically two days.
Flying to Guam takes 16 hours from Atlanta, Georgia or 14 from Houston, Texas. You stop in either Hawaii or Japan depending on the flight you choose.
Which hurricane? I was in vieques pr during Irma and Maria Maria changed my life forever. 😢❤
@@gidmaluWow!
Thank you for doing this one! I would love to see more about Puerto Rico!
Wow I learned alot on this one. Thanks Briggs
Hi Jill
Well done! An in depth video on the 5 main territories would be great.
I lived on Guam for 2 years. Great people, culture, food and stunning beaches. I lived on 4 islands in my life and Guam was my favorite. I'm married now to a Filipino lady and we have a 7 year old son. We will move to Guam sometime in 2024
I visited Guam on business for 3 months and it was the best time abroad I have ever had. I love that place and its people are amazing. I was a local restaurant by myself. A local and I started talking and he invited me to a beach BBQ, he and his high school friends have been doing for the past 30+ years. I was floored and how friendly they are.
Great subject. Outstanding video.
Glad you enjoyed it!
As a native Chamorro, I acknowledge the political status as the single difference between the CNMI and Guam. A manifestation of post World War II and external influences. We are one people, in culture and heritage. It would be interesting to reference one with the other. Incredible series of videos. Si Yu'us Ma'ase!
Hafa adai!
Can someone translate the end of that sentence?
@@doug6191 Hafe Adai
@@the_official_djalanjs0588 In Chamorro, the phrase is used to say "thank you". It means "God be with you"
@@DuskySavage oh thank you for telling me.
Please do the "big" five US Territories and their "livability".
If you ever have the funds to go to Guam, go to Guam. Snorkeling there is like swimming in a bathtub. Hafa Adai ("hof-a-day") is their version of Aloha!
Puerto Rico...!!!
@@TarmacSkin the only thing they got those right is reciprocity a shall issue carry fucking numbnuts got their act together
Right…. Looking for alternatives to Hawaii 👏🏼
The big five territories are probably expensive to live in because most goods have to be shipped.
My sister in law is from Guam. Great family addition to this Alaskan Native.
Guam + Alaska Native = 🇺🇲 as 🍎 🥧
🫶🏼 from NJ
Thank you for a pleasant video
I was lucky enough to have lived on Midway back in the 60's for a few years. Also visit Wake & Johnson Islands several times. My dad was a NASA engineer overseeing the Pacific Missile Range. Also got to see an Atomic Test from Johnson Island. Exciting childhood to be sure.
It's cool to get older and realize you are a part of history. Small town here but enlisted at 17. Over 20 years abroad now and still exploring! (long since retired). Good story! Thx
My dad broke his leg on Johnson Island and was flown to the hospital in Hawaii the day Hawaii became a state in 1959. He was on Johnson Island for one year.
Sounds like a life well lived, I envy you Steven.
Damn that's bad ass!!!
Lucky😑
When I was in the Army, we had a lot of Samoan and Guamanian recruits. And that was back in 69-71. Fort Ord. Hey, maybe a video on closed Army/military bases in the U.S.?
They probably have nothing better to do on those remote islands boring to death
Fort Ord is now the growing town of Marina, CA. Lots of new construction and tear down of old buildings. California State University-Monterey Bay also sits on what was the base. Though the base does not exist anymore, you can still shop at the commissary.
@@rromero9763 everyone I met from American Samoa in the army absolutely loves it there. They have a strong national pride there so a lot of them serve. But I never met on that wasn’t excited about going home.
ok bud
Same! I’ve met more people from Guam and Saipan then several US States in the Army.
Traffic drives on the left in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the only U.S. jurisdiction where this is the rule. Apparently, this is a hold-over from before transfer from Denmark to the U.S. in 1917 due to British influence in the Caribbean. Most vehicles in the USVI are the same as in the U.S. domestic market with left-hand drive.
Which used to make driving up the hills interesting. Driving in an open Jeep with nothing but 'down' on the driver's side.
No correct. USA stolen from Britain.
That's why driving it is like that.
@@marvinbrando722 you are wrong
@@marvinbrando722 How did the US steal them from the British when the British never owned them in the first place. Denmark owned what is now the US Virgin Islands. The US bought the Virgin Islands from Denmark for around $25 million dollars around the end of World War One. Britain annexed the British Virgin Islands from the Dutch.
The USVI was owned by 7 countries in total. So there is a ton left over from each. Including the side of the road that is driven. All rental cars come with the reminders 😹
Love the video. Been to Guam and enjoyed the experience. Wonderful place, genuinely beautiful, kind and generous people. Proud to have been there.
Very good video, really well done, enjoyed it.
Please expand on the 5 main territories! Really interesting!
An interesting post. In the mid 1960s I served aboard a US Navy ship with its homeport in Guam. We routinely patrolled the Northern Mariana Islands as well as Trust Territories of the Pacific, mostly the Caroline Islands. We visited Pago Samoa. The US Samoa Island and Guam are quite beautiful.
On my flight to Guam my plane landed in Wake. Some of our patrol assignments included barrier patrols, extensions of the DEW Line, part of the early warning system for the US.
Thank you fer yer service, Rich! 👍
Awesome story sir. It reminds me exactly of My dad almost. My dad was in the Navy as well in the 1960's and was stationed in Peurto Rico 🇵🇷. He did Communications on an Aircraft Carrier. He just died 2 weeks ago at 79. We miss him alot and are still grieving. We are going through alot of his things from when he was in PR for those 4 years in the military.
@@devanrogers3133 My heartfelt condolences fer yer loss.
@@devanrogers3133 Sorry for your loss.
@Rich Weatherly Patrolling? For what? Didn’t anyone tell you that WWII was over?
These islands are fascinating. You should definitely make more videos!
Another excellent production. Well done. Very educational.
Glad you enjoyed it!
From 🇵🇷 shoutout to all my colonized brothers and sisters 🇦🇸🇬🇺🇻🇮🇲🇵
Thanks brigg going to PR and USVI been waiting for you to drop a vid! Preciate it
Thank you very much sir! I am glad you have always had positive experiences with Guam (my roots) and its people. As a mainland Chamorro it is always nice for me to hear visitors say nice things about my home. Si Yu'us Maase
I've always wanted to go to Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and The U.S. Virgin Islands. But wow, I didn't know we have more U.S. territories than that. Briggs videos are always good, but this one's gonna be extra interesting.
@Jet Li Wrong ☝🏾As far as Puerto Rico, it's larger than Hawaii with one major International Airport and two regional airports on it's Main Island ☝🏾🇺🇸🇵🇷
How about the united states going away and stopping imperialism and colonialism in 1897 Puerto Rico was granted autonomy by Spain giving Puerto Rico the same status as Canada has with the U k. but the united states invaded.
@@jackrose2795 If the Republicans don't block it and the Puerto Ricans want it, there is a very good chance that it will become a state, and D.C. too.
@@danielcarroll3358 the Puerto Rican people want to control their own economy the united states with the Jones act maintains total economic control, the Puerto Ricans cannot not live in the united states economy system they are voting for food stamps and welfare benefits you are not Puerto Rican I am I know my people you don't you are a very simple american who cannot think we'll.
@@jackrose2795 You didn't notice that I said "if the Puerto Ricans want it"? I have no right to make the determination of status quo, statehood or independence. I merely pointed out that the Republicans would be opposed to statehood because Puerto Rico would probably vote Democrat, that is all.
Found this one interesting and educational. THNX.
Proud Puerto Rican!! PROUD AMERICAN..Thank you for sharing your video on the history of our US TERRITORIES!!
Having been stationed in Guam with the Air Force, I can attest to the kindness of the Chamorran people, Hafa Adai. Went to a little town on the south end of the Island, Merizo, to a festival and the people took my family and I into their homes feed us and gave us beverages so nice. It is just so expensive to get their, but a beautiful island with great weather.
I lived in merizo back in the 70s and loved it. worked on cocos island.
Learn something everyday! Thank you, Briggs. "Be nice everyone ☺️"
You bet!
@@WorldAccordingToBriggs
U probably didn’t know American Samoa was given the opportunity to join Samoa but decided to stay with the US
Awesome vid I must say. Really appreciate the effort you put into your vids to entertain and educate people 👏🏾👏🏾💯🗣
Currently living on St. Thomas USVI, hope you make it down. Love it here
Very fun video. learned a lot.
... If I was still teaching Country School, I would have my kids watch every world according to Briggs video.
Breh, I'm finna study to become a Country School teacher just so you can fulfill your dreams through me my guy. The names Kinoji btw
Why?
@@williamludlow3788 because the man has a desire to fulfill something but he can't because he is retired. Im taking it upon myself to study to become a Country School teacher so I can help him accomplish his goal since I'm younger and more moldable/eager to work. People help eachother reach their goals where I'm from (Japan). I speak fluent English even though it is my second language thanks to a Country School teacher in my small village.
@@GarlicNoji Woah... That's the nicest thing I've ever seen someone say to someone else on YT probably ever. You are a truly wonderful person who spreads a lot of positivity and join to the comment sections and the world overall. Your family must be proud of you! Youre a role model to everyone here comrade!! Also, thank you for making anime a thing!! KAWAII SUGOI~~!! XX 🇯🇵✌️🍣
😎👍
This is amazing. It nice to see that there are more than just a couple of islands to easily visit
Go the the Us virgin Islands.. beautiful..
@@yeseniakrueger1863 my thoughts exactly. That’s the exact place I had in mind when making my original comment 😂
Americam Somoa is very beautiful.. only very far awy from the Usa
The one I live on is the Dominican Republic also beautiful. Not a territory.. but it is the largest tourist destination in the carribean and is next to Puerto Pico and the virgin islands
@@yeseniakrueger1863 I definitely want to visit there as well, one day
Sweet vid. The U.S.V.I will always be home. It's very expensive to live. Living & fuel costs are always high. Electricity is expensive and unstable. We have the most costly kilowatt/hr in the U.S. You can retire there if you have a money tree or a golden egg laying goose. The people & place itself is wonderful, for the most part. Don't be disillusioned thinking you'll build a "cottage" on a beach for cheap, or even find cheap rent. I could go on & on.
@@banhammer3904 there's plenty places where you could live cheap with in the US
Just like Puerto Rico.
In St.Thomas there is no land left to build,great for vacations,i used to commute to work from Puerto Rico,to expensive rent.Lovely people👍.😎🌴🐊
@@joselassalle5906
Puerto Rico is WAY more affordable than Virgin Islands.
Virgin Islands has crazy expensive neighborhoods like every where. It reminds me of parts of North Jersey, where entire towns have houses so expensive that it'll make you 🤮
Lol. I don't normally hate on wealthy people. 😆 I'm not even a "tax the rich" type person. But USVI and North Jersey are the only two places I've ever seen where entire neighborhoods had ridiculously expensive housing that I wanted to vomit. Lol. God bless their residents!
Puerto Rico has some rich neighborhoods. Not as many as Virgin Islands.
Same thing with Pennsylvania next door. PA has some wealthy neighborhoods. But not nearly as many as North Jersey. It's just crazy how much wealth you'll find in places like Jackson, where Six Flags is located.
This is awesome, and very informative. Can’t wait for the 5 main island video, Bibb Chamorro 😊 🇬🇺
Good video. Yes please do an in depth video on the 5 main territories.
I would like more information depth about the territories.
Can you do one about countries that use the US dollar?
Definitely! This would shock a lot of people, I think.
I know Belize
@@bruhz_089 Belize also has its own dollar.
@@MirzaAhmed89 not really
Dont all countries use the dollar to trade oil.?
Thank you! Please make video about the 5 main territories.
BRIGGS I HAVE BEEN A SUB
SINCE DAY 1.
YOU ARE ONE OF THE MOST INFORMED AND INTERESTING HOSTS ON RUclips. I’VE FOLLOWED YOUR EXPANSION WITH MUCH APPRECIATION AS PROGRAMS GET BETTER AND BETTER. THE GIFT YOU PROVIDE IS A RICHER UNDERSTANDING OF OUR COUNTRY AND WORLD. YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR IS AS DRY AS THE SAHARA AND EVEN OCC. FUNNY. KEEP UP THE EXCELLENT WORK
Sharing this, is interesting. I'm from Puerto Rico(and live here). So much going on in the island. No all of us want to be a state. But everything is part of our history and I'll love to know more about every territory is the same position as us.
Yeah, no taxes and like the US passport and benefits
@@brianjschumer We have voted to become a state, so that means we are willing to pay taxes. Until we become one, we can't. And the US seems to have no interest in letting us join. But we aren't ethnically white or super rich so that ain't happening soon.
most of us Puerto Ricans want statehood so your opinion is invalid
Inválida 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for the reminders. Always wanted to be stationed in Guam but never got the chance. Puerto Rico was great!
What specifically was great about Puerto Rico? I'm curious
@@AngryNegativeHistoryProject if you really want to know Puerto 🇵🇷 Rico, get an islander to show you the Island and it wonderful 😀 people.
@@fidellaboy-negron5816 I was just asking
@@fidellaboy-negron5816 just curious
@@AngryNegativeHistoryProject The people were great, always friendly & helpful. The beaches were beautiful. I never saw a cookie cutter home, they were all unique. There was a huge park in San Juan where families would go for picnics & flying kites. The tile mosaics used on buildings & homes were always vibrant and alive. The rainforest was a wonderful place to explore.
Greetings from Puerto Rico!!! :)
Hi Briggs!! I would be very interested in a video on the main US territories. Especially Puerto Rico. I am thinking about moving there in a couple of years when I retire. I love your videos and look forward to them!!!!
I was born in Saipan and seeing this video and Saipan being recognized makes me happy.
lucky
Why did you move?
That waterfall was so lovely❤
Hi Briggs very informative
Very interesting video, well done
Referencing one of your first statements in your video. Years ago our family was visiting Mount Rushmore from Canada. There is an Avenue of States down the middle but I noticed there were 56 flags. So I asked a park ranger why there were six extra flags. He said they were for the US territories. He then asked me if I knew what they were. I only knew 5 (Guam, American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Northern Mariana Islands).. He told me the sixth was a collective term for and called the Minor Outlying Islands. He then said "You must be a Canadian." I asked how he knew, was it my accent? He said it was because I knew the territories. He said that American citizens might get 2 or 3 but rarely more than that. Canadians always tended to get more. I'm not sure why that is as I don't remember studying the US territories in school. BTW in grade school we used to study a map of the USA and all the capitals. I don't know if that is still the case as you have to wonder why a kid raised in Nova Scotia would need to know the capital in Nevada. (Carson City) BUT it was the reason I knew Pierre was the capital of South Dakota before I first visited. :-)
That's funny and sad at the same time. Funny that a Canadian knew more about my country than most of my countrymen do. I mean, Canadians can even sing our anthem. Sad because I don't know the capital cities of most of the 50 states. But I'm humbled and grateful to know that y'all take an interest in learnin about the US. ❤️
Some Americans can't even find the United States on a map so forget about us knowing all the state capitals?
@@donnash5813 LOL
There is no separate flag for the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands, it is just the standard Stars and Stripes. The sixth flag there should've been for the District of Columbia (DC). The MOI are such because they have no permanent population and frequently are either restricted because of contamination or, in the case of at least Palmyra, a nature reserve.
I remember fantasizing about BUYING Palmyra Atoll back in the late 1970s or early 1980s when it was listed for sale. It now is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife agency, with the exception of Cooper Island, which is owned by the Nature Conservancy.
@@charleshill7184 Very educational. Thank you. However, the main topic here is not about the District of Columbia.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for this ! I knew a bout 1/2 of these, but verry interesting
People in continental United States do not know what they are missing out on. They do not know that without a passport your can enjoy the world by going to these territories. They are very beautiful and the food at these places are delicious. Plus thank you Briggs for this video I have been wanting to see this for a while now.
Shut up Jopia, no one wants to visit these crappy places. We have Florida
@@barbaralynnjoy3840 and Mississippi lol
@@jaredbaux7119 don't forget sweet home 'bama!
They do know.
@@MirzaAhmed89 no they do not know
The U.S. territories are indeed interesting.
Yeah, I"d love to visit US Virgin Islands. I think they would alike, yet different than us I'm the mainland
The American Samoa looks beautiful too.
@Christine Vinas Yeah? I had a French teacher in HS that was St. Thomas, so I've been intrigued since then..I'm making way on my list to get there. Greetings from Florida!
@cv I wanna go to the Caribbean for it's obviously abounding in beautiful birds, fish, fresh air, and high beauty. One does need financial independence to move down there and then tourism is tricky where if you don't take a cruise package, you might be lucky enough to hitch a ride on a mail boat. The fishing and seafood is probably so divine. We have nothing like that in Utah and Nevada, but I was watching snorkeling for lobster in the Keys today which is lovely to get your yacht wet if you're in the money though it does look like there are some serious geopolitical issues going on down that way for the USA didn't secure Cuba and unite the countries South of the border so we'd all have peace, safety, and prosperity instead of conflict, crime, and violence.
@@Worldofourown2024 you can get to the virgin islands besides a crews. They have flights to and from them leaving out of Florida or you can get a smaller boat to take you there. Also the driver of the conflict with our southern neighbors isn't because we didn't take them over earlier in our history (see manifest destiny), we did take almost half of Mexico during that foray. Cuba is because of our differences with communism and the conflict with what's left of Mexico, is because of Americans' love of drugs. Why America hasn't figured out that this type of prohibition isn't working any better than the type they tried with alcohol, is beyond me. If we could figure out a better way to tax and regulate the recreational drug market, 90% or better of that violence down there would go away.
I don't get why Guam is separate from the rest of the Mariana Islands. You'd think it'd make more sense to just have one territory there.
ive heard that it is beacaus the northeners sided with japan while guam sided with the US
That's due to the fact that the Northern Marianas Islands chose to become a U.S. commonwealth. Hence, their new name is the CNMI (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).
The Northern Marianas were part of the UN trusteeship after WW2.
@@Noland55 Yes, they were. Saipan was the capital of the Trust Territories until they decided to break away and become a commonwealth in the 1980's. I believe in '85. But don't quote me on that. Just a guess.
@@Plutonium2000 You heard wrong. Guam became a U.S. Territory long before Northern Marianas became a Trust Territory. Then after Northern Marianas became a commonwealth, Guam tried to do the same but Washington D.C. said no.
Okay start making that other one.... I'm voting for it!!
Another great video, dawg! Thanks.
When I was in the service in 1960 I got to see some of these islands. We had refueling stops in Midway and when I was stationed in Japan I enjoyed TDY trips to the Philippines, Guam, and a number of other islands and countries. Guam was unique in that I only had about one day of work on the island but military aircraft that carried passengers only came and left once a week, so I had a nice vacation. It rained almost every day for a couple of hours. They had an outdoor theater for us GI's and we would go and see a movie in our swimming trunks because we would usually enjoy an evening shower. The island was loaded with coconut crabs. I was then stationed in Hawaii for about 9 months in 1962 and one could see nuclear explosions at night from the Johnston island testing grounds. Some of the small ones looked like lighting and the large ones lit up the whole sky. We would go on the roof of the barracks and listen to the countdown and wait for the flash.
Coconut crabs and giant pie plate sized toads.
Awesome story I wish mine was that cool I was stationed in NC and got drunk for 4 years
Hooyah
To add to your comments about the USVI. There was a naval base in St. Thomas for decades. It was a submarine base which the locals to this day call "sub-base". Along with Vieques, PR, the USVI had a strong connection to the war efforts during WWII.
THANK YOU BRETHREN
RICH HISTORY
VIRGIN ISLANDS PEACE ✊🏿✊🏿✊🏿
Very interesting video. Could you do one on the several countries that are in "Free Association" with the United States? I believe three of such countries are Palau, Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia (and there might be one or two others). While a few other countries in the world use the American Dollar, these countries banks are FDIC insured, they use the US Postal Service and I believe our US Military is obligated to protect them (I might be wrong on this). Thanks
Thanks for that very informatinve video of the US territories. I grew up on Wake island from the 60's and early 70's until they closed it down and changed commands to the Air Force in 1972. Before then, there was a population of about 2,000 people with with 600 of them being families with children. The rest were maintenance crew, military personnel, and contractors. At the time the Federal Aviation Administration ran the island.
Wake was attacked immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor. It took the Japanese 11 days to capture the Island, but it was also where they suffered their first major loss, with the US Military and civilians fighting them off and sinking 4 of their ships. After the Japanese took over the Island, they sent most of the prisoners of war to Japan and China leaving 98 men to build their bunkers and trenches. They were later killed by the Japanese.
Starting the video with roasting youe friend was.. something lol
I spent 25 months on Guam during my time in the Navy working at NAS Agana.(1981-1983) I loved it! The culture and the people are very interesting with all their Fiesta's based on Catholicism. The locals treated me great. I've heard it has changed much and not so desirable. Hard to believe from what I experienced. Thanks, Briggs.
Of all the territories Guam is most important due to its relative short distance to Asia. If the US should ever lose this island again you know the US is in major economic decline as it takes $ to support these overseas territories. America’s greatness is directly tied to its economy so when that goes south so does its influence. China knows this!
I was stationed on Midway from 1977 thru 1979. It is called Midway because it is almost perfectly equally distant between North America and Asia. It was also used as a Pan Am clipper sea plane base route from the US & Japan. I loved my tour there.
11:09
@@infinityiznowhe said Asia and North America not Hawaii and Japan
Yes do a more independent one on the five or six larger U.S. territories, please. . .
This is a great video! No one ever seems to mention that the US has, not just some well known territories, but some special (even if empty) islands as well.
In the mid 80's to mid 90's I used to land at Johnston Atoll on my way from Honolulu to Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands (U.S. Army Ballistic Missile Test Range) where I worked for several years. At the time Johnston was still being used to burn the U.S. stockpile of chemical & biological weapons. As we slowed down after landing we were joined on the runway by 2 Humvee's, one on either side, with locked & loaded .50 caliber machine guns pointed directly at the aircraft. They didn't mess around with security. Also been to Guam & all the Northern Marianas.
I know an old Airforce Col. who said that they found ex Japanese soldiers living in the woods on Guam back in the 70's.
He was a Sargent and got all his back pay because he never abandoned his post. He got old so the authorities dug him out of his spider hole and shipped him back to Japan. There he married and honeymooned on Guam.
I have family who lived on Saipan he was a U.S. government employee, she worked as a machine operator supervisor. When he moved she wouuld worked the same job in their next city. She is selling their lake retirement home as I watch this video and sadly moving to assisted living or in with my mother. Love watching you videos.
Early old age is great. Late old age can be so sad. Hope everything turns out well for them.
Wait! Saipan is an American territory?
Yes, please make videos on the five main territories: Guam, Puorta Rico, American Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Tinian?
Thank you for the history lessons. I learn more about American history on this platform than I ever did in public school.
I’m from Saipan, and I can’t help but to agree to everything you said about it. Even though I left my home island a while ago, I do still yearn to return there.
It’s a beautiful island and no other places I’ve seen can beat it.
Do y'all speak Spanish on Saipan? And I agree with you 100% when you said it's a beautiful island. Any tropical island is beautiful compared to where I'm from, simply because it never gits humid nor buried in snow. Well, whatever reason made you move away from paradise I hope you'll be able to go back and enjoy it agin.
I asked a friend of mine to describe Saipan to me and she said, "...Saipan is a beautiful rock made more beautiful by its people with their unique culture and warm hospitality." Now, that type of description would make anyone wanna visit Saipan.👍
@@meekawolff People of Saipan speak English, Chamorro, Filipino and Carolinian with probably some Japanese, Korean, and Chinese for good measure.
@@andysnyder4506 Dang! You sayin them folks from Saipan are multilingual? I aint never heard of a country whose people could speak 6 languages. I am seriously impressed! 👍
@@meekawolff let's put it this way, Saipan is a small community with various other ethnic groups living there as well. The local (indigenous) people speak English, chamorro and carolinian.
The last Japanese soldier was found on Guam in a cave in 1972 almost 28 years after the war.
Don't stop say what he was doing
@@noahhowellstone1264 He was waiting for the Imperial Sun to rise again.
@@stefanschleps8758 he was killing hikers, had to bring in a Japanese general to let him know the war was over
Im prety shuer he was in the phillipines which was a territory at the time
yes my spelling sucks
@@noahhowellstone1264 SsAaRrCcAaSsMm
If you have the chance please visit American Samoa or Guam. So gorgeous
Regarding Guam: and we weren’t in a good mood!!! Love it
I loved this! Yea, more information!
This was a really good one to see. I've been wondering about the US territories. I knew Guam has had a major US military since WW11 and Puerto Rico is struggling financially since their last big hurricane. But, other than that, Yes, I'd be interested in more about the tip 5.
Ben Carson and Dtrump agriculture bill thats what terrorizing these islands not no hurricane !!! Bunch of hidden agenda's in the bill that allows CBP ,HSI, and courts to loot these places !!!
Lmfao I’m from Iowa and I love my fanny pack, thanks for the shout-out…I guess 😂
I was reading your comment exactly when he was talking about that. 🤣
Guam is actually way, or far, east. The eastern, northern and western most parts of the US are in Alaska. The Aleutian Islands cross the antimeridian at 180 degrees and this is where east and west are divided. Love your videos!!
good point
He said Guam is the western most point and territory of the US in Oceania.
From West to Guam is 5,990 Miles East to Guam is over 11,000 Miles
I like this video it’s so cool the territories are very small and they’re missing countries!
I'm so happy this video exists :) Thank you!
I love learning about the territories because they're so forgotten
It'll get worse if they keep canceling and rewriting history sadly.
Anyone else miss when he used to say "and I am Briggs" at the end when he said, "what is going on everyone, welcome back to world according to Briggs"..."and I am Briggs".........or is it just me lol
He never said that. It's Mandela effect
I’m from Puerto Rico and have been living in the US mainland for 4 years now. I had to move because jobs are scarce and barely pay anything at all. Plus, you gotta outside towns like mine to get a ‘better’ chance to find a job. My Puerto Rico is gorgeous. It’s a shame so many of us had to move out due to the corrupt government there not doing anything to fix the economy.
What's your opinion on Puerto Rico becoming an independent nation, a state, or remaining as it is?
@@Andrew-df1dr I admittedly don’t really know about how the economy works so I’m honestly not sure on whether it would be better for PR to be an independent nation, a state or remain as a territory. What I’m definitely sure of is that even as a territory PR could’ve been economically great anyway if it’s government had never been corrupt and did their job right.
We feel the same way up here in Alaska. Alaska is so different than Puerto Rico, Alaska's huge, but Puerto Rico has two million more people than our state. And let's not forget the weather. But, that's a different yet understandable story. lol. But, the jobs up here are so scarce. So, thousands of people have already left because of that reason. But, when I first visited the mainland for the first time, I felt so distant from everyone. lol. I felt weird. Well, I did go to Miami so maybe that's why lol.
Puerto Rico needs to become independent. Many much smaller lands in the Caribbean already are.
Yup
A good friend of mine currently lives in Guam! He worked for the US Weather Service, which transferred him there
from southern Alaska (big weather change) in 2001! There, he met & married a woman from the Philippines & is
now enjoying his retirement on this beautiful island! He just called me last week & the place sounds great!
I really liked this one! 👍🏽👍🏽
A little known fact about American Samoa: American Samoans are not U.S. citizens. They have the unique distinction of being 'U.S. Nationals', but not U.S. citizens. As U.S. nationals, they carry U.S. passports, and are fully allowed to live and work in any part of the United States or its territories and districts, but their passports do come with the notation that the bearer of the passport is a U.S. national, but not a U.S. citizen. A very quirky distinction.
NO QUIRKY DISTINCTION! CITIZEN VOTES-NON-CITIZEN DOES NOT!! No matter what the globalist liberals say!
Not a quirk but a RACIST policy. Remember people from American Samoa are not usually white
American Samoa are just freeloaders on U.S taxpayers. They have no strategic or economic value to the U.S in this modern day and age. The only country in the world that was given a chance to become an independent sovereign nation but refused. That free federal money too sweet aye 😂
@@RogersMgmtGroup Ah yes idiots in here not knowing anything. It was the Samoans that requested they not be made American citizens, not the US.
American Samoa has a number of cultural practices in its laws that would be illegal under the US constitution should Samoans be US citizens by birth, things like blood quanta laws and protection from eminent domain.
It has been the American Samoan government that has repeatedly filed briefs to US courts requesting Samoans not be given birthright citizenship and to maintain the status quo of national.
@@lahaes excuse me. DO some research we have the highest rate per capita of enlistment in the US Military. So the lives of our soldiers are not freeloading on nothing they earn it.