The Channel Islands are a group of islands in the English Channel off the coast of France. They are divided into two jurisdictions, the Bailiwick of Jersey and the Bailiwick of Guernsey, which are both British Crown Dependencies. The islands have a total population of around 165,000 people.
The Channel Islands have been inhabited since the Stone Age. They were settled by the Celts in the 6th century BC and later by the Romans in the 1st century AD. In the 9th century, the islands were raided by Vikings and in the 10th century they became part of the Duchy of Normandy. In 1204, the Duchy of Normandy was lost to the French, but the Channel Islands remained under British control.
The Channel Islands are not part of the United Kingdom, but they are self-governing British Crown Dependencies. The islands are responsible for their own internal affairs, but the UK is responsible for their defence and foreign policy. The islands are not members of the European Union, but they are part of the European Customs Union.
The Channel Islands are a popular tourist destination. The islands are known for their mild climate, beautiful scenery and cultural attractions. The main industries in the Channel Islands are tourism, financial services and agriculture.