This ready reference guide to more than 500 years of political, social, economic, and cultural development in Puerto Rico fills a conspicuous information gap. It rectifies what has been to date a lack of easily accessible, accurate, and relevant information in English about Puerto Rico and its 3. 6 million inhabitants. From African roots to El Yunque (Puerto Rico's tropical rain forest), this encyclopedia offers nearly 300 substantive entries on important people, places, events, social and political issues, legislation, movements and organizations, and terms and concepts. Entries celebrate the history, achievements, and creations of the Puerto Rican people. Each entry concludes with a short list of suggested reading for further information.