Puerto Rico Jurisdictions

History
Puerto Rico became a territory of the United States in 1898, after the Spanish-American War, when Spain renounced all claim to Puerto Rico after four centuries of political control. Puerto Rico is a self-governing commonwealth (also known as an unincorporated territory) of the United States. Puerto Ricans have been United States citizens since 1917.

Barrios
Barrios of Puerto Rico are the administrative divisions of the municipalities. A barrios is similar to a civil township or precinct.

Municipalities
The municipalities of Puerto Rico are the main administrative divisions of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. There are 78 municipalities. Each is led by a mayor with a municipal legislature and are divided into barrios.

Governor
Since 1900 the top level of government in Puerto Rico is the position of governor who has the overall responsibility of the state of the commonwealth.

Jurisdictions under Spanish Rule
The only references to jurisdictions before 1805 are those of the Catholic Church diocese. For futher information: Puerto Rico Research Guide by Platt, Lyman De, PH.D.