ST. PIERRE and MIQUELON, the largest islands of two small groups 1 o m. off the south coast of Newfoundland; united area about 93 sq.m. Both islands are rugged masses of granite, with a few small streams and lakes, a thin covering of soil and scanty vegetation. Area of St. Pierre group, I o sq.m. ; pop. (1931), 3,743. Area of Miquelon group, 83 sq.m. ; pop. (1931), 578.
The islands were occupied by the French in 1660, and fortified in 1700. In 1702 they were captured by the British, and held till 1763, when they were given back to France as a fishing station. They are thus the sole remnant of the French colonies in North America. Taken by the English in 1778, restored to France in 1783, again captured and depopulated by the English in 1793, recovered by France in 1802 and lost in 1803, the islands have remained in undisputed French possession since 1814 (Treaty of Paris). Their importance is due to their proximity to the great Banks, which makes them the centre of the French Atlantic cod fisheries. Fishing lasts from May till October, when the population
of the island is greatly increased. Two-thirds of the vessels are fitted out from St. Pierre, the chief town on the islands, the re mainder coming from St. Malo, Cancale and other French coast towns. Primary education is free, with two schools for boys and three for girls, besides private schools. A Governor, since 1921, organizes the various public services, with the aid of a con sultative council of administration and the municipal councils.
St. Pierre has cable communication with Europe and America.