Since 1898, Puerto Rico, like Hawai'i, Guam, the Philippines, American Samoa, and Cuba has resisted U.S. colonialism. The small island of Vieques, off the coast of Puerto Rico's main island, is home to 9300 residents. Intense bombing and live-fire training have destroyed much of the environment and threatens the lives of the residents.
Residents believe that toxic contamination from the bombing is to blame for the health problems.
The Navy activities have also stunted the development of the island's economy. Seventy-two percent of the Vieques population live below poverty level. Like David vs. Goliath, the community has courageously resisted the military's abuses. In 1979, a flotilla of fishing boats blockaded an amphibious landing in Vieques. This resistance has continued over the last twenty years.