The Bahamas is the name for a group of more than 700 islands, cays, and islets located about 50 miles (80 km) off the eastern coast of Florida. The Bahamas extend in a chain stretching southeastward more than 500 miles (800 km). However, only about 20 of these islands are inhabited, with 70 percent of the country's 320,000 residents living on New Providence, where the capital, Nassau, is located. Another 17 percent of the population lives on Grand Bahama, the island closest to the United States. Famous for its mild climate, coral reefs, and spectacular beaches, the Bahamas attracts millions of visitors each year from around the world. For centuries the islands were part of the British Empire, but gained independence in 1973. Today, the Bahamas enjoys great prosperity as a popular tourist destination and international finance center. There's a lot to discover about the Bahamas!