Well I think history has always had examples of interesting or adventurous cultures coming from islands.I thought I'd start a thread so we could mention some of these peoples who have achieved much with their islands, perhaps as some inspiration for our own.

I think the obvious winner amongst all island folk must be the British for the huge empire they came to dominate. Japan to me takes a close second for developing such a powerful economy despite all limitations and despite being crushed in WWII. Taiwan gets respect for hanging on in the face of China, no small feat. Last I'll mention Corsica, never a cultural or political capital though one of the greatest conquerors of all was born there which merits a mention.

City-states I dunno my history too well. I have to count NYC for being so dominant in finance, and a former capital Hong Kong is another big time metropolis on an island of its own that has done well. Am I missing any?

The island of Crete, the supposed birthplace of the Minoan culture to which the ancient Greeks are so indebted to.

Maylasia, an archipelego nation which can boast of an extremely prosperous and orderly society, even if her laws might seem draconian by western standards.

You have also forgotten to mention Iceland. Although their living standards are still considered below what is acceptable by western standards, it´s still in a much better position than the majority of the countries of our own hemisphere. Plus, it´s an important hub of Viking culture, so it´s archaeological and anthropological value is not to be underestimated.

As far as city-states go there can be no greater city-state than ancient Rome, which eventually grew into an empire. Hell, Dominicans speak a bastardisation of the Roman's language ourselves. Of course, we call it Spanish

Well Rome is no island city I'm also unsure if it is the greatest city-state...lots to be said for Athens. I'm not a big fan of the Romans, though respect is due for their empire and of course our culture includes Roman roots.

I'm curious about Malaysia, it isn't discussed much. Am I right that is is actually the most populous Muslim nation? I think that is the one thing I have heard mentioned about it.

Well the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur is truly a modern marvel and the city itself is as conglomerate and metropolitan as any other, especially for the region of Southeast Asia.

Lautaro, I'm not so sure your position on Iceland is correct. From what I've heard and seen, they're living pretty comfortably up there. Also, its a very beautiful little country.

I was alluding to the fact that they were the poorest country on Western Europe up until the 20th century, its population migrating in great waves, specially to the US and Canada. Granted, they have achieved an astounding level of economic growth on recent years, but this growth will depend on their remaining a country with a low population (they're currently an island of only 316,000 inhabitants), because, were they to allow the population to grow without control, the evils of neoliberalism will be bound to appear sooner or later.

The greatest Island where most history has ever phenomenally been made is HISPANIOLA. (lol)!!!

The greatest Island where most history has ever phenomenally been made is HISPANIOLA. F*ck what you hear (lol)!!!

HISPANIOLA IS #1