Guam

Definition

Guam is a U.S. territory located in the western Pacific Ocean, acquired from Spain after the Spanish-American War in 1898.

Analogy

Think of Guam as a remote outpost for the United States, like a far-off treehouse that you've claimed in your neighbor's yard. It's not part of your main house (the continental U.S.), but it's still under your control and you can use it to keep an eye on what's happening around.

Related terms

Spanish-American War: A conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898, resulting in America gaining territories including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

Territory: An area of land under the jurisdiction of a ruler or state.

Pacific Ocean: The largest and deepest oceanic division on Earth, bordering several continents including North America and Asia.