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The history of the islands is a little complex.  Simply speaking the U.S. bought the islands from Denmark during WWI for $25M, mostly because of concern they would fall into German hands , which would use them as a submarine base.

Park of what use to be called the West Indies, they were ‘discovered’ by Columbus in 1493, on his second voyage to the area.  They were named for Saint Ursula and her virgin followers.

The major islands are St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John.  A few smaller islands, such as Water Island, have small populations.

Under Danish rule, the islands were pretty much deforested for the planting of sugar cane.  Slaves from Africa were brought in to work the cane fields, the current locals are for the most part decedents of those slaves.

The U.S. Virgin Islands are considered a U.S. territory, where residents are considered U.S. citizens.  The have representation in Congress (can vote in committee but not on the floor), but cannot vote for President.  You do not need a passport to go there from the continental U.S. your drivers license will get you there and back.