Facing a $72 billion public debt, Puerto Rico defaulted on a $422 million payment last month, stoking fears that the commonwealth’s fiscal situation needs drastic intervention. As the territory is facing a $2 billion payment due July 1, Congress is considering a measure to allow Puerto Rico to restructure its debt under the purview of a mediation board or in federal court.  

Many Americans are unaware the territory is part of the U.S. — this is how Puerto Rico compares to the states.