Beginning with an overview of the Spanish conquest and resulting rule, this handbook chronicles the history of Puerto Rico with specific attention devoted to the social and economic influences of contact with both Spain and the United States. Topics of particular relevance include a geographical overview of the land and its influence on the Puerto Rican people, Spanish colonialism, the social and economic impact of Spanish rule, Puerto Rico under United States rule, Puerto Rico as a territory and a commonwealth, the effects of economic and cultural influences of the United States on Puerto Rican society, and the causative factors resulting in the Puerto Rican migration to the United States mainland. (JN)