The History of Guam and Why It Is a US Territory Research Paper

The History of Guam and Why It Is a US Territory - Research Paper Example 1. Chamorro people were the first settlers on the island. According to Cunningham & Beaty (2001), they immigrated from Indonesia or Philippines to the Island and brought their culture and language with them. 3. The latte was  «stone pillars » that served as a building material for Chamorro dwellings according to Cunningham & Beaty (2001). Today scientists pay specific attention to late to learn more about Chamorro culture. 3. When the war was over, USA increased its influence on the territory of Guam. Guam Organic Act signed in 1950 declared Guam to be  «organized territory of the USA » with its local government (Rogers, 1995). 4. There were several referendums held on the Island to determine its future as Guam had a right for self-determination (Ruffatto, 1993). Local people could choose whether they wanted to be with the USA or develop independently. 49% of voters expressed their will to stay together with the USA in 1982 as stated by Rogers (1988). I. Summary: Guam has a long history; it was ruled by local Chamorro peoples, colonized by Spain and occupied by Japan. It became a part of the USA not so long ago and this decision was confirmed by referendum in 1982. All in all, Guams history makes this place unique and outstanding. Ruffatto, P. (1993). US action in Micronesia as a norm of customary international law: The effectuation of the right to self-determination for Guam and other non-self-governing territories.