Insular Areas are territories of the United States that are not part of any state. These areas include places like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. They have a unique political status and are governed by different laws compared to the states. Residents of these territories are U.S. citizens or nationals but may not have the same voting rights in federal elections. These territories often have their own local governments and can make certain decisions independently. However, the federal government retains authority over issues like immigration and foreign affairs. Insular Areas play a significant role in U.S. culture and geography, contributing to the nation's diversity.