Miami, << my AM ee, >> Beach, Florida (pop. 82,890), is one of North America’s most famous resort centers. It lies on an island 21/2 miles (4 kilometers) across Biscayne Bay from the city of Miami. The island measures 10 miles (16 kilometers) from north to south and is 1 to 3 miles (1.6 to 5 kilometers) wide. Four causeways connect Miami Beach with the mainland.
Tourism is the major industry of Miami Beach. The tropical climate, white sandy beaches, and recreational areas attract large numbers of tourists annually. The city has many parks, fishing piers, playgrounds, beaches, recreation centers, and swimming pools. Tropical trees and shrubs line its streets, and gardens of brilliant flowers border its green lawns. Miami Beach features many buildings designed in the Art Deco style popular in the 1920’s and 1930’s.
Tequesta Indians lived in the Miami Beach area in the 1400’s. A Spanish mission was built in 1567. An attempt by businessmen to start a coconut plantation failed in the 1880’s. But John S. Collins, one of the businessmen, pioneered in developing the resort city. Other city founders include Carl G. Fisher, Thomas J. Pancoast, and John N. Lummus. In 1912, rock and sand were pumped from the bottom of Biscayne Bay and spread over mangrove roots and soft sand to create the modern city. Miami Beach was incorporated as a town in 1915. It was incorporated as a city in 1917. The city has a council-manager government.
