Guam History. Guam may be best known for white sand beaches and luxury shopping, but that's just the glossy exterior. Guam is also important as a strategic communications hub and forward defense outpost for the region.

Guam: Religious affiliationEncyclopædia Britannica, Inc.; The Chamorro language is an Austronesian language that has, over time, come to incorporate many Spanish words. A Brief, 500-Year History of Guam The Chamorro people of this Pacific island have long been buffeted by the crosswinds of foreign nations.

Guam, the largest and southernmost of the Mariana Islands chain, has a unique and complex cultural history. Underneath, there is an exotic island culture waiting to be discovered. Souder, Laura Torres. Sanchez, Pedro C. Guahan Guam: The History of Our Island , 1989.

Chamorro Culture. In addition to its inviting beaches, elegant hotels, and great bargains, Guam has another vital attraction- its unique culture.The traditions and customs of Guam's proud island heritage thrive, despite invading conquerors, wars and epidemics, and changing governments. Tiempon I Manmofo 'na: Ancient Chamorro Culture and History of the Northern Mariana Islands , 1998. Guam is an island nation that is located in the Pacific Ocean and is a part of the Marianas Island chain. The word Chamorro is derived from Chamorri, or Chamoli, meaning “noble.” English and Chamorro are the official languages; although Chamorro is still used in many homes, English is the language of education and commerce.

... culture, history and traditional civilization. Located in the Western Pacific in the geographic region known as Micronesia, Guam is well known for its strategic military and economic position between Asia and the North American continent, but is less known for its remarkable history and resilient people. Daughters of the Island: Contemporary Chamorro Women Organizers on Guam, 1992. We hope this brief history of Guam will provide a basic appreciation of Guam’s unique history and culture derived from it’s original native inhabitants, the Chamorros, who were on Guam as early as 2,000 B.C.

If you're a culture vulture, follow our guide for the best way to immerse yourself in local food, history, and traditions.