Micronesia. Federated States of Micronesia Nauru Micronesia

Micronesia includes the Marianas, Carolines, Marshalls, Gilberts and Nauru islands. The state is located in the western part Pacific Ocean in the Caroline Islands. The length of the coastline is 6,112 km. The islands are heterogeneous in geological origin: from high mountains muddy islands to low coral atolls. Volcanic activity continues on some of the islands.

The climate of the archipelago in the western part is equatorial and subequatorial, in the eastern part it is tropical trade wind-monsoon, with slight temperature fluctuations. Average monthly temperatures- about +25+30°С. Precipitation amount - from 1,500 to 4,000 mm per year in different parts archipelago (heavy rainfalls often occur on the eastern islands), the drier months are winter.

Story

The ancestors of the Micronesians settled the Caroline Islands more than 4 thousand years ago. Over the centuries, two social groups emerged in Micronesian society - the “noble” and the “common”; the former did not engage in physical labor and differed from the latter in their special tattoos and jewelry. The territorial associations were headed by chiefs (tomol), but their power was not the same on different islands. Remains were discovered on Temen Island (Pohnpei State) ancient civilization - stone city Nan-Madol. It consisted of monumental structures erected on reefs - platforms made of coral rubble and lined with basalt slabs. Residential and temple complexes, buried the dead and performed various rituals. According to legends, the city was the center of the vast Saudeler power and was destroyed by the conquerors, after which Pohnpei split into five territorial entities. Similar monuments were found on Lelu Island (Kosrae state). On the island of Yap in later times there was, apparently, a centralized public education which had economic and religious functions. Tribute was collected from conquered tribes. The first Europeans found on Yap one- and two-tiered platforms with temples and men's houses, as well as peculiar money in the form of large stone disks with a hole in the center.

The Caroline Islands were discovered by European navigators in the 16th-17th centuries. In 1526, di Menezighi discovered the Yap Islands, and in 1528, Alvaro Saavedra first saw the Truk Islands (modern Chuuk). In 1685, Captain Francisco Lazeano rediscovered the island of Yap and named the island Caroline (after King Charles II of Spain). Later this name was transferred to the entire archipelago, which was declared the possession of the Spanish crown. However, the discovery of its islands continued in subsequent years. The first Spanish Catholic missionaries, arriving in 1710 on the Sonsorol Islands and in 1731 on Ulithi Atoll, were killed by the islanders, and the Spanish abandoned attempts to colonize the Caroline Islands until the 1870s.

From the end of the 18th century. Commercial and scientific British, French and even Russian ships began to visit the archipelago. Thus, in 1828, the Russian navigator F.P. Litke discovered the islands of Ponape (Pohnpei), Ant and Pakin and named them in honor of Admiral D.N. Senyavin. Since 1830, American whalers have often visited here. In the 1820s–1830s. Pohnpei was home to British sailors who were shipwrecked while carrying an English missionary to Kosrae. In 1852, American evangelists founded a Protestant mission on the islands of Pohnpei and Kosrae. German and English traders began to penetrate the archipelago.

In 1869, Germany established a trading station on Yap, which became the center of the German trading network in Micronesia and Samoa. In 1885, the German authorities announced their claims to the Caroline Islands, which Spain considered its own. Thanks to the mediation of the Pope, a German-Spanish treaty was concluded, recognizing the archipelago as Spanish possession, but giving German traders the right to create trading posts and plantations on them. Spanish soldiers and missionaries arrived on the islands, but they met fierce resistance on Pohnpei. The islanders rebelled and destroyed plantations.

After losing the war with the United States, Spain agreed in 1898 to cede the Caroline and Mariana Islands to Germany. From 1906 they were controlled from German New Guinea. The German colonial authorities introduced universal labor service for adult islanders and began extensive road construction. In response, the people of Pohnpei rebelled and killed Governor Beder. The uprising was suppressed by the German fleet only in 1911. In the fall of 1914, Micronesia was occupied by Japanese troops.

Officially, Japan received a mandate from the League of Nations to govern Micronesia only in 1921. It used the territory of the Caroline Islands for economic purposes (fishing, production of cassava flour and alcohol from sugar cane), to create naval and air bases. Japan pursued a policy of forced assimilation towards the indigenous population. Tens of thousands of Japanese were resettled on the islands, to whom the best lands. Japanese settlements emerged. Traces of Japanese domination were preserved in the appearance of the Carolinians, in their language and names.

Since 1944, bloody battles began on the islands between American and Japanese troops. By 1945, Japanese forces had been expelled from Micronesia, the archipelago came under US military control, and in 1947 the Caroline Islands (along with the Marianas and Marshall Islands) became a UN Trust Territory administered by the US - a Trust Territory Pacific Islands(PTTO). From 1947 to 1951, the territory was administered by the US Department of the Navy, then transferred to the civil administration of the US Department of the Interior. In 1961, the Council of Micronesia was created, but all power remained in the hands of the American High Commissioner. In 1965, the first elections to the Congress of Micronesia were held. In 1967, Congress created the Future Political Status Commission, which recommended seeking independence or establishing a "free association" relationship with the United States with full internal self-government. Since 1969, negotiations have been held between representatives of the Congress of Micronesia and the United States.

On July 12, 1978, the population of the districts of Truk (Chuuk), Ponape (Pohnpei), Yap and Kusaie (Kosrae) voted in a referendum for the creation of the Federated States of Micronesia. The Marianas, Marshall Islands and Palau refused to join the new state. On May 10, 1979, the FSM Constitution was adopted, and in the fall the first elections to the National Congress, as well as the governors of four states, were held. The country's president was former President of the Congress of Micronesia Toshiwo Nakayama, who took office in January 1980.

During 1979–1986 The United States has consistently transferred management functions to a new head of state and government. Issues of foreign policy and defense of the FSM remained the prerogative of the United States. In 1983, the population approved the status of “free association” with the United States in a referendum. On November 3, 1985, the PTTO was officially dissolved and the US trusteeship regime ended. On December 22, 1990, the UN Security Council approved the abolition of trusteeship and the FSM became an officially independent state.

Sights of Micronesia

Micronesia - amazing country. Despite the influence of the United States, life here goes on as usual. Here you can still see people in loincloths who are far from the benefits of civilization and live in their own world, without globalization and stress.

Micronesia has the most stunning beaches! The lagoons here are bright blue, and the beaches have white crumbly sand. It is one of the best places for diving and snorkeling. These places are rich not only in coral reefs and marine life, but also in the remains of sunken ships and aircraft from the Second World War.

Stunningly beautiful lagoons filled with beautiful coral reefs and a real underwater museum of sunken ships can be found on the island Chuuk.

Island Kosrae considered one of the most beautiful islands Pacific Ocean. The beauty of the island is simply enchanting: the peaks of high mountains, untouched tropical forests, extraordinary flowers, coconut and banana plantations, entire gardens of orange, tangerine and lemon trees, wild beaches. Far from civilization, this is a real paradise.

Residents of the island Yap have still preserved the centuries-old traditions and culture of their ancestors, despite many years of colonization. Here, stone coins are still used in trade among themselves, and residents walk around in loincloths and engage in agriculture and handicrafts.

Yap consists of 134 islands and atolls. According to many travel publications, Yap is one of the TOP 3 best places for diving. Endless beaches, atolls, several picturesque villages attract tourists from all over globe to get acquainted with the unique life of the island and feel unity with nature.

Pohnpei Island is the largest, most developed and densely populated island in Micronesia. The island is famous for its waterfalls, wonderful forests with blooming nature and the hospitality of the local people. You should definitely see the ruins of Nan Mandol, which are located on 92 artificially created islands back in the 1st century. The islands are connected by canals, so the colonialists nicknamed the artificial archipelago the Venice of the Pacific.

The island is popular with surfers. The season lasts from late October to April.

Micronesian cuisine

The national cuisine of Micronesia varies from island to island. This culinary symphony is united by an abundance of seafood, juicy fruits, vegetables, and grains. It is seasoned with various sauces.

Main components local cuisine can be called: sweet potatoes (called “yams”), coconuts, breadfruit.

IN meat dishes add pork. However, nothing beats seafood in popularity. They love it here different kinds fish, shellfish and crabs. As we see, nature is generous.

Locals They like to quench their thirst with water and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Be sure to appreciate the national alcoholic drink called "sakua". It is made from the juice of hibiscus bark. Please note that you will not be able to try alcohol on Chuuk Island: it is prohibited there.

The content of the article

MICRONESIA,Federated States Micronesia (FSM), a state in the northwestern part of Oceania between 0 and 14° N latitude. and 136 and 166° E. (2500 km from west to east), occupies 607 islands of the Caroline archipelago (except for the islands of Palau, or Belau, in the west). Consists of four states: Yap, Chuuk (formerly Truk), Pohnpei (formerly Ponape) and Kosrae (formerly Kusae). total area sushi 702 sq. km. (including Pohnpei 0.34 thousand sq. km., Chuuk 0.13 thousand sq. km., Yap 0.12 thousand sq. km., Kosrae 0.12 thousand sq. km.). Only 40 islands are significant in size. The largest of them are islands with the same names as the states. The capital is the city of Palikir on Pohnpei Island.

NATURE

Based on their geological structure, they distinguish between low coral islands, rising 3–5 m above sea level, and higher volcanic ones (Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae), with elevated mountainous central parts. Volcanic islands are surrounded by lagoons separated from the ocean by coral barrier reefs, often consisting of several dozen small islands. Many reefs have passages that allow ships to approach large islands.

The state of Yap includes seven small and four large islands (Yap, Map, Rumung, Gagil-Tomil) and 134 atolls, stretching from west to east over 1,100 km. Yap Island is characterized by hilly terrain with maximum height 178 m (Mount Tabivol) and fertile soils. It is surrounded by a barrier reef. Most of the population of the state of the same name lives on the island of Japan. Administrative center state - the city of Colonia. The largest atoll of the Caroline Islands, Ulithi Island (8 sq. km) consists of 40 small islands. Fais Atoll in the Yap group is known for its phosphorite reserves.

Chuuk State, which occupies a central position in the FSM, is located 1,440 km east of Yap and consists of 15 small island groups scattered in the Pacific Ocean over a latitudinal distance of 480 km in the north and 960 km in the south. The state also includes the atolls of Namonuito (second in area in the world), consisting of 10 islands, Namoluk (triangular in shape), Laol, Pis, Talap, the islands of Pular, Puluwat, Kuop, Nama, Losap, Mortlock (100 islands in three groups - Etal, Lukunor and Satavan). The Chuuk Islands themselves are a compact group of 14 mountainous islands of volcanic origin (Moen, Tol, Dublon, Fefan, Uman, etc.) with a total area of 72 square meters. km, surrounded by a coral reef. Main city Chuuk Moen State is located on the island of the same name. Lagoon surrounding the 14 central islands of the Chuuk group with an area of 2000 square meters. km, serves as an excellent harbor for the port on the island of Dublon. Settlements are confined to the coasts of the islands.

The state of Pohnpei occupies the largest island of the same name, surrounded by a reef consisting of 2.5 dozen islets, half of which are of volcanic origin. The state also includes the islands of Ant (2 large and 12 small), Pakin, Oroluk (with small islands), Mokil (Urak, Manton, Mokil islands with excellent timber and several hundred small ones), Pingelap (Pingelap itself, Takai and Tagulu , united by one reef), as well as two isolated atolls, Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi (also known as Greenwich).

The soils of Pohnpei are fertile, lush forest vegetation covers the slopes that rise straight from the shores up to Mount Nana Laud (798 m), located in the center of the island. Numerous rivers and springs originate from it. drinking water. On this island is the capital of the state, Palikir, with the seats of government and congress, modern airport And sea port. The administrative center of the state is the city of Colonia.

The state of Kosrae is located on the island of the same name and the surrounding reef in the extreme east of the FSM. The island is mountainous with a highly dissected topography (the highest point is Mount Finkol, 634 m above sea level), covered with thickets of excellent timber. The soils are fertile. There are significant reserves of river drinking water. The island of Kosrae is surrounded by a reef and has four convenient bays (Okat, Lelu, Taf and Utwe). The main settlements - Tafunsak, Lelu, Malem and Utwe - are located on the coast and are connected by an unpaved road. The main city of the state is Lelu. There is local air service to Pohnpei. The airport is operational.

The FSM climate is equatorial, more humid in the east of the archipelago, where the cyclone zone passes. Conventionally, two seasons are distinguished: dry (January - March) and wet (April - December). From November to December, northeast trade winds predominate; the rest of the year, southwest monsoon winds blow, bringing heavy rainfall. On Pohnpei the average is 300 rainy days per year. Average annual precipitation is 3000–4000 mm. Seasonal fluctuations in air temperature are insignificant, average monthly temperatures are 24–30° C. The length of daylight hours is the same throughout the year.

The vegetation is represented mainly by virgin moist equatorial forests on the mountain slopes. On volcanic islands it is significantly more diverse than on coral islands. Coasts volcanic islands often covered with mangroves. On both types of islands, coconut palms, breadfruit trees, pandanus trees, and bananas grow. Europeans and Asians introduced citrus fruits, cassava, sweet potatoes, various tropical fruit trees, chocolate trees, and black pepper.

The land fauna is not very diverse. Bats, rats (brought on ships by the first Europeans), and lizards are represented. Many types of birds. Extremely diverse and rich animal world ocean, including many species of fish, crustaceans, bivalves, dolphins, and sometimes whales and dugongs.

POPULATION

As of July 2003, there were 108,143 people living in the FSM. Age composition of the population: under 15 years old - 38%, aged from 15 to 64 years old - 59%, over 65 years old - 3%. Average life expectancy is 69.13 years. Population growth in 2003 was 0.04%. The birth rate reaches 26.47 per 1000 inhabitants, the mortality rate is 5.1 per 1000. The emigration rate is 20.98 per 1000. Infant mortality is 32.39 per 1000 births.

The Compact of “Free Association” with the United States allows citizens of the country to freely choose their place of residence within the United States. Currently, in the USA (on the island of Guam, the Hawaiian Islands and on the mainland) approx. 15 thousand FSM citizens.

The ancestors of modern inhabitants of the Caroline Islands come from South-East Asia. Racially, they form a special group, formed as a result of the mixing of Australoid and Mongoloid elements. The atolls of Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi are inhabited by Polynesians. Ethnically, there are 9 groups.

Official language FSM and the language of interethnic communication is English. The languages of the indigenous population of the archipelago belong to the Eastern Oceanic group of the Oceanian branch of the Austronesian family: Yapese, Woleai, Ulithi and Sonsorol, Caroline, Truk, Kosrae, Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi. The last two are Polynesian languages. The writing of local languages is based on the Latin script. Many older people speak Japanese.

50% are Catholics, 47% are Protestants, less than 1% of the population adheres to local traditional beliefs.

Ethnic composition and employment.

The ancestors of the modern inhabitants of the Caroline Islands come from Southeast Asia. According to the latest theories, Micronesia was settled in two ways - through the islands of the Malay Archipelago, and possibly the Japanese Islands, and also through Vanuatu (formerly the New Hebrides). The inhabitants of the Caroline Islands, like all Micronesians, form a special group racially, formed as a result of the mixing of Australoid and Mongoloid elements. They are characterized by fairly dark skin, wavy, straight and curly hair, and average height. The appearance of some Carolinians also contains Japanese, Chinese and European features. The atolls of Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi are inhabited by Polynesians.

Traditional activities local population– fishing and agriculture. Cleared of forest small areas the forests are used for the cultivation of coconut palms, breadfruit, pandanus, yams, sweet potatoes, cassava, bananas, taro, and sugar cane. Currently, citrus fruits, various fruits (pineapples, papaya, mangoes, etc.), chocolate trees, and peppers (black and betel) are also grown. The population also engages in fishing and collecting mollusks and crustaceans on the reef. IN last years service employment is growing tourism business(hotels, restaurants, agencies) and airports. In the cities, Carolinians work as petty employees and engage in handicrafts, in particular, making souvenirs.

Language and writing.

The official language of the FSM is English, which is also the language of interethnic communication. The languages of the indigenous population of the archipelago belong to the Eastern Oceanic group of the Oceanian branch of the Austronesian family - Yapese, Woleai, Ulithi and Sonsorol, Caroline, Truk, Kosrae, Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi. The last two are Polynesian languages. The writing of local languages is based on the Latin script. English is taught in all schools. Many older people speak Japanese.

Religion.

The overwhelming majority of the population is Christian, with approximately equal numbers of Catholics and Protestants. In some states Protestants predominate (over 98% in Kosrae), in others Catholics predominate (Chuuk State). Less than 1% of the population adheres to local traditional beliefs.

POLITICAL SYSTEM

The FSM is a democratic, federal presidential republic in a relationship of “free association” with the United States. The head of state and government is the president. Like the vice president, he is elected by Congress from among its members for a term of four years. In 2003, Joseph John Urusemal was elected President of Micronesia.

The highest legislative body is the National Congress, consisting of 14 members. 4 of them (sometimes called senators) are elected by the population for 4 years (one from each state), the remaining 10 are elected for 2 years in single-member constituencies (5 in Chuuk, 3 in Pohnpei, 1 each in Yap and Kosrae). The last elections took place in 2003. The minimum age to vote is 18 years.

Each of the 4 states has a governor and legislature elected by the people.

There are no official political parties.

The highest judicial body is the Supreme Court.

FSM is a member of the UN (since 1991) and its specialized organizations, as well as a number regional organizations, for example the Pacific Forum.

It does not have its own armed forces. According to the Treaty of Free Association, the country's military protection is provided by the United States.

ECONOMY

Micronesia's economy is based on subsistence and semi-subsistence agriculture and fishing. The islands have few mineral resources, except for phosphates. There is significant potential for the development of the tourism industry, but the remote location, lack of developed infrastructure and an established transport communication system are holding it back. Private sector grows slowly.

After the value of GDP reached $145 million in 1989, it declined in subsequent years and was estimated to be approximately $100 million in 2002, or approx. 2 thousand dollars per capita. Real GDP growth in 2002 reached 1%. Agriculture contributed 50% of the value of GDP, industry – 4%, services – 46%.

The inflation rate in 2002 was 1%. OK. 28% of the population lives below the official poverty level. Two thirds of the hired labor force works in the public sector. Unemployment in 1999 reached 16%.

Agriculture provides 60% of the country's food needs. Almost 50% of the working population all year round or during agricultural work. They grow coconut palm, breadfruit, pandanus, yams, sweet potatoes, cassava, bananas, taro, citrus fruits, papaya, mango, chocolate tree, pepper (black and betel) and other crops. Goats, sheep and buffalo are raised on Pohnpei. Some agricultural products are exported, mainly coconut products. The coconut palm, its leaves and nuts are the main food of the islanders. In recent years, the role of fishing in the country's economy has been increasing, since the ocean resources within the maritime economic zone (2.6 million sq. km.) are its property. Licensed fishing is carried out by Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Mexico and USA. The Micronesian Maritime Academy operates in Yap, training personnel for the development of fisheries.

Foreign tourism is developing. Every year the country is visited by approx. 25 thousand tourists, mainly from Australia and Japan. The industry is dominated by construction, fish processing, aquaculture, production of handicrafts and souvenirs from shells, wood and mother-of-pearl.

The main export items are copra (more than 50% of the export value), pepper (black and betel), fish (mainly tuna), trochus shells, coconut derivatives (edible and cosmetic oil, soap, creams), bananas, and local handicrafts. Export volume is 73 million dollars per year. Goods are exported primarily to Japan, the USA and Guam.

The value of imports is estimated at 168 million dollars (1996). FSM imports up to 40% of food products, industrial goods, cars and other machinery, and petroleum products. Main import partners: USA, Australia and Japan.

Total length highways– 240 km, of which 42 km. have a hard coating. The main ports are Kolonia (Yap), Kolonia (Pohnpei), Lele, Moen. In 2002, there were 7 airports, 6 of which were paved.

Micronesia has 11 thousand telephone lines and 2 thousand Internet users, 6 radio and 2 television stations. The population owns 9.4 thousand radios and 2.8 thousand televisions.

The budget consists of taxes, exports of agricultural products, seafood, and licensing of tuna fishing by foreign countries in the maritime economic zone. US financial assistance helped cover the excess of expenses over income. In accordance with the Treaty of Free Association, in 1986–2001 the United States provided financial and technical assistance totaling $1.3 billion. Under the 2002 agreement, this assistance was significantly reduced. External debt: $53.1 million Currency unit- U.S. dollar.

SOCIETY AND CULTURE

Education.

According to the FSM constitution, education is financed from the central and regional budgets. Primary and secondary schools are owned by the state and religious missions. State governments provide basic education and teacher training, while central governments support and coordinate education at all levels. Professional education youth receive education at the Micronesian College in Palikir (opened in 1972, has faculties of business, pedagogy, applied arts, etc.), the Micronesian Vocational Center on the island of Kosrae, in the schools of agriculture and trade on Pohnpei, the Javier High School on Chuuk, as well as in educational institutions in the USA (on the mainland, Guam and the Hawaiian Islands).

Healthcare.

Medical care to the population is provided in full by state medical institutions. True, in recent years private dental and medical practice has appeared on Pohnpei. The FSM government recruits doctors for the Public Health Program through the US National Health Service and the UN Development Program. It also implements various health, nutrition and sanitation programs of the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations International Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the South Pacific Commission (SPAC). There are hospitals in every state, several dispensaries and more than 100 outpatient clinics operate in the country. In difficult cases, patients are sent to hospitals on Guam and the Hawaiian Islands.

Culture.

The traditional culture of the FSM population is pan-Micronesian (with the exception of the culture of the two Polynesian atolls of Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi). However, it has undergone significant changes over several centuries of foreign domination. But even today on many islands there are houses of local pillar construction without walls, the function of which is performed by gable roofs reaching to the ground, covered with palm leaves or mats. Micronesians still master the art of making wooden boats without a single metal nail. Leaders play a significant role in the public life of the FSM. Perhaps the culture of the Yapese remained the most conservative (folklore, dancing, houses on stone foundations under palm leaves, loincloths for men and fluffy skirts made of plant fibers for women).

Intensive contacts in recent decades with Western world changed the mentality of the younger generation of FSM citizens, who are no longer guided by traditional values, but strive to join the achievements of Western civilization.

STORY

The ancestors of the Micronesians settled the Caroline Islands more than 4 thousand years ago. Over the centuries, two social groups emerged in Micronesian society - the “noble” and the “common”; the former did not engage in physical labor and differed from the latter in their special tattoos and jewelry. The territorial associations were headed by chiefs (tomol), but their power was not the same on different islands. On Temen Island (Pohnpei state) the remains of an ancient civilization were discovered - the stone city of Nan Madol. It consisted of monumental structures erected on reefs - platforms made of coral rubble and lined with basalt slabs. Residential and temple complexes were built on the platforms, the dead were buried and various rituals were performed. According to legends, the city was the center of the vast Saudeler power and was destroyed by the conquerors, after which Pohnpei split into five territorial entities. Similar monuments were found on Lelu Island (Kosrae state). On the island of Yap in later times, there apparently existed a centralized state entity that had economic and religious functions. Tribute was collected from conquered tribes. The first Europeans found on Yap one- and two-tiered platforms with temples and men's houses, as well as peculiar money in the form of large stone disks with a hole in the center.

The Caroline Islands were discovered by European navigators in the 16th and 17th centuries. In 1526, di Menezighi discovered the Yap Islands, and in 1528 Alvaro Saavedra first saw the Truk Islands (modern Chuuk). In 1685, Captain Francisco Lazeano rediscovered Yap and named the island Caroline Island (after King Charles II of Spain). Later this name was transferred to the entire archipelago, which was declared the possession of the Spanish crown. However, the discovery of its islands continued in subsequent years. The first Spanish Catholic missionaries, who arrived in 1710 on the Sonsorol Islands and in 1731 on Ulithi Atoll, were killed by the islanders, and the Spanish abandoned attempts to colonize the Caroline Islands until the 1870s.

From the end of the 18th century. Commercial and scientific British, French and even Russian ships began to visit the archipelago. So, in 1828, the Russian navigator F.P. Litke discovered the islands of Ponape (Pohnpei), Ant and Pakin and named them in honor of Admiral D.N. Senyavin. Since 1830, American whalers have often visited here. In the 1820s and 1830s, Pohnpei was home to British sailors who were shipwrecked while carrying an English missionary to Kosrae. In 1852, American evangelists founded a Protestant mission on the islands of Pohnpei and Kosrae. German and English traders began to penetrate the archipelago.

In 1869, Germany founded a trading station on Yap, which became the center of the German trading network in Micronesia and Samoa. In 1885, the German authorities announced their claims to the Caroline Islands, which Spain considered its own. Thanks to the mediation of the Pope, a German-Spanish treaty was concluded, recognizing the archipelago as Spanish possession, but giving German traders the right to create trading posts and plantations on them. Spanish soldiers and missionaries arrived on the islands, but they met fierce resistance on Pohnpei. The islanders rebelled and destroyed plantations.

Officially, Japan received a League of Nations mandate to govern Micronesia only in 1921. It used the territory of the Caroline Islands for economic purposes (fishing, production of cassava flour and alcohol from sugar cane), to create naval and air bases. Japan pursued a policy of forced assimilation towards the indigenous population. Tens of thousands of Japanese were resettled on the islands, and the best lands were given to them. Japanese settlements emerged. Traces of Japanese domination were preserved in the appearance of the Carolinians, in their language and names.

Since 1944, bloody battles began on the islands between American and Japanese troops. By 1945, Japanese forces had been expelled from Micronesia, the archipelago came under the control of US military authorities, and in 1947 the Caroline Islands (along with the Marianas and Marshall Islands) became a UN Trust Territory administered by the US - the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands (TPI). From 1947 to 1951, the territory was administered by the US Department of the Navy, then transferred to the civil administration of the US Department of the Interior. In 1962, administrative authorities were moved from Guam to Saipan (Mariana Islands). In 1961, the Council of Micronesia was created, but all power remained in the hands of the American High Commissioner. In 1965, the first elections to the Congress of Micronesia were held. In 1967, Congress created the Commission on the Future Political Status, which recommended seeking independence or establishing relations of “free association” with the United States with full internal self-government. Since 1969, negotiations have been held between representatives of the Congress of Micronesia and the United States.

Throughout 1979–1986, the United States consistently transferred management functions to a new head of state and government. Issues of foreign policy and defense of the FSM remained the prerogative of the United States. In 1983, the population approved the status of “free association” with the United States in a referendum. On November 3, 1985, PTTO was officially dissolved and the US trusteeship regime ended. On December 22, 1990, the UN Security Council approved the abolition of trusteeship and the FSM became an officially independent state.

Micronesia at the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century

In 1991, Micronesian President John Haglelgam (1987–1991), who lost the parliamentary elections, resigned as head of state. The presidency was held by Bailey Olter (Pohnpei State) from 1991–1996, by Jacob Nena (Kosrae State) from 1996–1999, by Leo Ami Falkam from 1999–2003, and by Joseph John Urusemal since 2003. A draft constitutional amendment that would have provided for direct elections of the president and vice president was rejected.

The country's main problems remain high unemployment, declining fish catches and a high degree of dependence on American aid.

The state of the Federated States of Micronesia consists of 607 small islands, of which only 40 are of significant size and only 65 are inhabited.

All large islands They are of volcanic origin, mountainous, forested and surrounded by coral reefs. Other islands – atolls(ring-shaped coral islands with a shallow lagoon inside).
The Federated States of Micronesia is located in the Caroline Islands in Oceania. Just like the Republic of the Marshall Islands, this state has the status of free association with the United States, i.e. heavily dependent on American subsidies.
The islands are connected to each other by sea and by air. There is a sea connection with west coast USA, Japan, Philippines, Taiwan, Guam and air communications with Guam, Hawaii, Nauru.

State symbols of Micronesia

Flag- a blue cloth and four stars on it, which symbolize the four states. The flag was adopted on November 30, 1978.

Coat of arms- Seal of the Federated States of Micronesia. At the bottom of the seal is the motto: “Peace, Unity, Freedom.”
Head of State and Government– President, elected for 4 years. The Constitution is modeled after the US Constitution.
Capital- Palikir.
Climate– equatorial and subequatorial, trade wind-monsoon type. It often rains heavily here (April is the wettest month). The wettest month is April.
In the region of Micronesia, typhoons occur from August to December (up to 25 per year). Typhoons are characterized by destructive hurricane-force winds of 240 kilometers per hour.

Administrative division– the country consists of 4 states with their own governments: Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei (Ponape) and Yap. States have a high degree of independence in almost all spheres of public life.

Flora and fauna

The islands are covered with evergreens tropical forests; present savannah(spaces covered with herbaceous vegetation with sparsely scattered trees and shrubs); On large coral islands, mainly coconut palms and pandanus trees grow.
Vegetable world on volcanic islands there is more diversity than on coral islands. The coasts of volcanic islands are often covered with mangroves.
On both types of islands, in addition to the coconut palm and pandanus, breadfruit and bananas grow. Citrus fruits, cassava, sweet potatoes, various tropical fruit trees, chocolate trees, and black pepper were brought here from Europe and Asia.

Fauna not very diverse: bats, rats (brought on ships by the first Europeans), lizards. But the fauna of the ocean is very diverse and rich: many species of fish, crustaceans, bivalves, dolphins, and sometimes whales and dugongs.

Official language- English. Yapese, Trukian, Pohnpei and Kosrae languages are also used.
Population– 110,000 people High level of emigration. The ethnic composition is diverse.
Religion– Christianity: Catholics – 50%, Protestants – 47%, others – 3%.
Economy– based primarily on agriculture and fishing. They cultivate coconut palms, vegetables and fruits, bananas, tapioca, and black pepper. They raise pigs, goats, dogs (for meat), and chickens. Industrial activities consist mainly of agricultural processing, soap making, and boat manufacturing. Fish, copra, black pepper, bananas, and souvenirs are exported (the main exports are to Japan and the USA). Food and industrial goods are imported.
Tourism is not yet developed enough. The reason is the same as in other countries of Oceania: the remoteness of the islands, insufficient infrastructure and underdeveloped air communications with the outside world.
Currency- U.S. dollar.
Education– primary and secondary schools belong to the state and religious missions. State governments provide basic education and teacher training, while central governments support and coordinate education at all levels. Young people receive vocational education at the Micronesian College in Palikir. It was opened in 1972, has faculties of business, pedagogy, applied arts, etc. In addition, the country has a Micronesian Vocational Center on Kosrae Island, schools of agriculture and commerce on Pohnpei, Javier High School on Chuuk, as well as educational institutions in the United States (on the mainland, Guam and the Hawaiian Islands).
Sport– The Federated States of Micronesia took part in the 3-year Olympic Games(debuted at the Summer Olympics in Sydney in 2000). During the entire period of the country’s participation in the Games, 12 athletes (7 men and 5 women) took part in competitions in athletics, swimming and weightlifting. The country has never participated in the Winter Olympics.

Culture

The traditional culture of the country is pan-Micronesian (with the exception of the culture of the two Polynesian atolls Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi). But it is already under the strong influence of foreign cultures, because... Foreigners have dominated here for several centuries. However, Micronesians are trying to preserve their culture: in some areas they still build national houses and master the art of making wooden boats without metal nails. Leaders play a significant role in their social life.

The culture of the state of Yap has remained the most conservative: folklore, dancing, houses on stone foundations under palm leaves, loincloths for men and fluffy skirts made of plant fibers for women have been preserved.
But the mentality of the younger generation of Micronesians has already changed greatly: they are increasingly focused on the achievements of Western civilization.

Sights of Micronesia

Each state has its own attractions, since the nature of Micronesia is unique and diverse.

Despite Micronesia's attachment to the economic and political interests of the United States, it lives by its own traditional rules: here you can see people in loincloths, and stone coins are used as a means of payment along with the dollar. Micronesians are proud of their past (their ancestors crossed the Pacific Ocean long before Europeans arrived here) and their present: the islands have the best conditions for living in the world. diving, snorkeling(a type of swimming under the surface of the water with a mask and snorkel, usually with fins) and surfing. Except marine fauna, the islands are famous for their huge diversity of seabirds (more than 200 species).

Kosrae Island (Kosrae)

A quiet place in Micronesia. The area of the island is 109 square meters. km, surrounded by a volcanic interior with wild tropical forests, an ancient barrier reef and beautiful coast, which is formed by the combination of sandy shores and mangrove swamps.

The islanders show a friendly interest in tourists. Although the outskirts of the massive royal castle-city were destroyed (Chief Kosrae was the dominant regional ruler), the remaining ruins give a sense of the power and grandeur of the ancient city.
The highest point of the island is Lelu Hill, where there is a whole cluster of caves and tunnels used by the Japanese during the Second World War.
Close to the shore are pristine coral reefs that are best place for diving - underwater visibility here often exceeds 30 m, and in summer more than 60 m.

Pohnpei Island

A small volcanic island in Micronesia (area 345 sq. km, which is a decent size compared to other islands of the state). Rectangular island framed picturesque bays and narrow peninsulas. Coastline is a tidal beach and covered with mangroves.

The main city of the island is Colony, large by island standards locality, but retaining its colorful provincial character. small town Palikir, just 8 km nearby, is the capital of Micronesia. Pohnpei Airport and most of the island's hotels and restaurants are located in Kolonia.

Ancient stone city Nan Madol lies on nearly 100 artificial islets off the southeastern coast of Pohnpei. Nan Madol was built from colossal basalt blocks during the tyrannical Saudeler dynasty, which reached its peak in the 13th century.

The outer walls of the city reached 8 m in height, and on the inside they contained crypts. Although many of Nan Madol's temples, vaults and reservoirs have been destroyed, the city's inner strength is compelling.
Pohnpei's most famous natural monument is the picturesque Sohes Rock - a 180 m basalt cliff that resembles a human face.

Yap Islands

The state of Yap includes 4 islands (Yap, Maap, Gagil-Tamil, Rumung) with a total area of 105.4 km² with a population of about 8 thousand people. This place is interesting because old traditions and ways of life have been preserved here: buildings in the villages are still built from wood, straw, rope and bamboo.

The society maintains a caste system, where the main role is played by the elders and leaders of the village, and hard currency, along with the American dollar, is still stone money, similar to millstones. The largest have a diameter of 3 meters, a thickness of 0.5 meters and weigh 4 tons.

Chuuk Islands (formerly Truk)

The colorful island attracts tourists with its nature and history. Archaeological materials confirm that the Chuuk Islands were inhabited about 2 thousand years ago. Initially, local residents settled only on the coast and were engaged in pottery, but about 1,500 years ago this culture disappeared, and the islanders moved to the interior and mountainous slopes.

During the Second World War, a large naval base was located on the islands. military base Japan. On February 17, 1944, the Americans launched the military operation "Hilston", as a result of which more than 30 large and many small Japanese ships were sunk. Subsequently, control of Truk passed to the US Army.
The sunken ships and planes of Japan have created a kind of “underwater museum” - evidence of a naval disaster. Some of the transports were filled with weapons, trucks and fighter planes; team members remained buried at sea...

History of Micronesia

It is believed that Micronesians arrived on these islands from Asia in the 2nd millennium BC. e. – this is evidenced by the Nan Madol complex on the island of Ponape.
But by the time Europeans began colonizing the islands, the population was at the stage of decomposition of the primitive communal system.
The Caroline Islands were discovered by the Spaniards in 1527. In the 17th century. Spain declared the Carolinas its possession, but actual control over the archipelago was not established. It was only in 1885 that Germany announced its claims to the Caroline Islands. Spain turned to international arbitration, and the chosen arbitrator, Pope Leo XIII, awarded the islands to Spain.
In 1899, Germany bought the Caroline Islands from Spain.
During the First World War in 1914, the islands were captured by Japan. The Japanese created large sugar plantations there, and the policy of relocating the Japanese to the Carolinas was actively pursued. Local residents were subjected to forced assimilation by the Japanese.
During World War II, the Carolinas were occupied by the United States, which received a UN mandate for this in 1947.
In 1978, the Caroline Islands received the status of a “freely associated territory with the United States.”
The Federated States of Micronesia became a sovereign state in the free association of the United States on November 3, 1986.

a state located in the western part of the Pacific Ocean. It has the status of a “freely associated” state with the United States. Former UN trust territory under US administration. The agreement on “free association” with the United States was signed in October 1982, came into force on November 3, 1986. Member of the UN since September 17, 1991. Capital - Kolonia (Palikir).

The form of government is a federation. Each state has its own legislative bodies.

Administrative division - 4 states.

The Constitution of May 10, 1979 is in force. The head of state is the president, elected by universal suffrage for a term of 4 years. The legislative body - the Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia consists of 14 deputies elected for a term of 2 years, with the exception of four deputies elected for a term of 4 years from each of the four states.

Executive power is exercised by the president and the government. The government includes the vice-president of the country, as well as several department secretaries. The post of minister does not exist. (A.K.)

Great definition

Incomplete definition ↓

Micronesia

Federated States of Micronesia State structure Legal system Judicial system. Control authorities Island state in the Pacific Ocean, including the central and eastern Caroline Islands and Kapingamargagi Atoll. Territory - 701.4 sq. km. The capital is Palikir. Population - 140 thousand people. (1998), predominantly Micronesians. The official language is English. Religion - most believers are Christians. In the XVII-XIX centuries. Micronesia belonged to Spain from 1898-1914. Germany, since 1920 a mandate territory of Japan, since 1947 a UN trust territory under US administration. Since 1986 it has been a “freely associated” state with the United States. This status means that the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has full sovereignty, excluding defense issues, which remain the prerogative of the United States. Admitted to the UN in 1991. Government Micronesia is a federal state consisting of 4 states with their own governments: Chuuk (formerly Truk), Kosrae, Pohnpei (Ponape) and Yap. States have a high degree of independence in almost all spheres of public life. The Constitution of 1979 is in force, modeled on the US Constitution. According to the form of government, the FSM is a republic of a special type. The political regime is democratic. There are no political parties. Legislative power belongs to the federal unicameral parliament - the National Congress of the FSM, consisting of 14 senators (4 senators are elected, one from each state for a period of 4 years, 10 in single-member districts with approximately an equal number of voters for a period of 2 years). The head of state and government is the President, elected by members of the FSM National Congress from among 4 state senators for a term of 4 years. At the same time, the Vice President is elected. The government of the states is established by their own constitutions and is generally similar to the federal one. Legal System Micronesia's legal system is based on US law. In certain areas of relations (land, family, inheritance), norms of local customary law also apply, the role of which is recognized by the Constitution. Labor law in Micronesia has not received significant development, since the country has a small number of employees. The Constitution and legislation do not directly establish the right to organize into trade unions, strike and collective bargaining, nor do they limit work time. By 2000, not a single trade union had been formed in the FSM. The Federation and the states continue to use the Criminal Code of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, introduced by the American administration. Everyone uses their own version of this act, which they independently amend. Yap State adopted the US Model Penal Code. The main difference from the United States in the field of criminal law is the prohibition of the death penalty established by the FSM Constitution (Article IV Section 9). The FSM Constitution's Bill of Rights includes procedural guarantees of individual rights in criminal proceedings that closely mirror the corresponding provisions of the US Constitution. The adversarial process system borrowed from the United States is contrary to the national traditions of the Micronesians. Due to this a large number of criminal cases do not end up in the courts, but are resolved through conciliation procedures with the participation of the families of the perpetrator and the victim in accordance with local customs. Judicial system. Control bodies The judicial system is headed by the Supreme Court of the FSM, consisting of 3 judges sitting in two branches: first instance and appellate. This is the only federal court. Supreme Court judges are appointed by the FSM President for life with the approval of Congress. Each FSM state has its own supreme court with a similar structure. Only in the state of Kosrae there is no appellate division - this function is performed by the Supreme Court. There are also a small number of local (municipal) courts on the islands. The criminal prosecution system is headed by the Attorney General, who is both the head of the Department of Justice (a member of the Cabinet) and the chief legal adviser to the government. Since 1991, the vast majority of cases have come under state jurisdiction. All states except Kosrae recognize the institution of traditional leaders, who play a significant role in resolving various types of disputes. The highest financial control body is the public auditor, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of Congress for a period of 4 years.

- a state on 607 islands in the western Pacific Ocean. Former name - Caroline Islands.

The name of the country comes from the ancient Greek "mikros" and "nesos", meaning "small" and "island", meaning "micro-island".

General information about Micronesia

Official name: Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)

Capital - Palikir.

Square - 702 km2.

Population - 130 thousand people

Administrative division - The state is divided into 4 states: Truk, Kostrae, Ponape, Yap.

Form of government - Republic.

Head of State - The president.

Official language - English (official and inter-ethnic communication), 8 local languages: Japanese, Woleai, Ulithi and Sonsorol, Caroline, Truk, Kosrae, Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi.

Religion - 50% are Catholics, 47% are Protestants, 3% are others..

Ethnic composition - 41% - Chuukeans, 26% - Pohnpeians, 7 other ethnic groups - 33%..

Currency - US dollar = 100 cents.

Internet domain : .fm

Mains voltage : ~120 V, 60 Hz

Country dialing code: +691

Description of the country

Micronesia means “small islands”, and this absolutely accurately reflects the essence of this country. Although the islands are firmly tied to the economic and political interests of the United States, Micronesia stubbornly follows its traditional path - a country where people sport loincloths and stone coins are still used as a means of payment. Micronesians are very proud of their past, especially since they have every right to be - their ancestors crossed the Pacific Ocean in fragile canoes long before Europeans entered these waters.

The islands have some of the world's best diving, snorkeling and surfing conditions and are seen as potential international center For beach holiday And aquatic species sports. The waters around the islands are filled with many forms of spectacular marine life. There are a large number of species of hard and soft corals, anemones, sponges, fish, dolphins and shellfish, including the giant clam Tridacna. Large pods of whales pass through these waters every year. Several species of sea turtle lay eggs on these shores, and the islanders are allowed to use both turtle meat and eggs for food. The islands are also home to over 200 species of seabirds.

Climate

The climate of Micronesia is equatorial, more humid in the east of the archipelago, where the cyclone zone passes. Conventionally, two seasons are distinguished: dry (January - March) and wet (April - December). From November to December, northeast trade winds predominate; the rest of the year, southwest monsoon winds blow, bringing heavy rainfall. Pohnpei has an average of 300 rainy days a year. Average annual precipitation is 3000–4000 mm. Seasonal fluctuations in air temperature are insignificant, average monthly temperatures are 24–30° C. The length of daylight hours is the same throughout the year. The part of the Pacific Ocean where Micronesia is located is an area where typhoons occur (on average there are up to 25 typhoons per year). Typhoon season is from August to December.

Geography

Federated States of Micronesia - island country in western Oceania and the Pacific Ocean. It is bordered in the west by the Palau Islands, in the north by the Mariana Islands, and in the east by the Marshall Islands. Occupies most Caroline Islands(except Palau). Outside the main island arc there are numerous atolls that make up the country. Micronesia consists of 607 islands, the largest of which are Pohnpei (342 sq. km), Kosrae (Kusaiye, 111 sq. km), Chuuk (126 sq. km), Yap (118 sq. km). The total area of the islands is 720.6 square meters. km, and the water area is 2.6 million square meters. km.

The most mountainous are about. Pohnpei (with highest point- Mount Ngineni, 779 m), and about. Kosrae (Mount Finkol, 619 m). On about. Yap is dominated by rounded hills; The islands of Kosrae, Chuuk and Pohnpei are of volcanic origin. Most of the islands are low atolls on coral reefs. The most extensive marine lagoon is Chuuk (surrounded by 80 small islands).

Flora and fauna

Volcanic and coral islands differ in the nature of their vegetation. On the coast of the volcanic islands there are mangroves, coconut palms, and bamboo. The coral islands are dominated by coconut palms.

The fauna is represented by bats, rats, crocodiles, snakes, and lizards. The world of birds is diverse. Yap, unlike other “high” islands, is of non-volcanic origin, it is covered with hills and meadows. The waters of coral reefs and lagoons are rich in fish and sea animals.

Banks and currency

United States dollar (USD), equal to 100 cents. Banknotes in circulation are in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars. And also coins: penny (1 cent), nickel (5 cents), dime (10 cents), quarter (25 cents), half dollar (50 cents) and 1 dollar. Dollar - official currency countries, so there is no point in importing anything else. American dollar travel checks are accepted almost everywhere, and most large hotels, restaurants and shops accept them as cash. There are no commercial banks on either Truk (Chuuk) or Kosrae, so make sure you have enough cash before heading to these islands. Credit cards are widely accepted on Pohnpei and are increasingly used in Truk and Yap.