Countries Encyclopedia Entry 1778001184

Overview

Kiribati, formerly known as the Gilbert Islands, is a sovereign island nation located in the Pacific Ocean. The country is situated about halfway between Hawaii and Australia, and its name is derived from the Gilbertese language, meaning "white man's island." Kiribati is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and has a parliamentary system of government. The country's capital and largest city is Tarawa, which is home to over 50% of the population. Kiribati is known for its rich culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

The country's geography is characterized by a chain of 33 coral atolls, which are low-lying islands formed from coral reefs and sand. The atolls are scattered over an area of approximately 811,000 square kilometers, making Kiribati one of the largest countries in the Pacific in terms of land area. However, the country's total land area is relatively small, with a total of 811 square kilometers. The climate in Kiribati is tropical, with high temperatures and high humidity throughout the year.

Kiribati has a population of around 119,449 people, with the majority being I-Kiribati, the indigenous people of the country. The I-Kiribati have a rich culture, with a strong emphasis on traditional values and customs. The country's official language is Gilbertese, but English is also widely spoken. Kiribati has a diverse economy, with a mix of fishing, agriculture, and tourism.

History/Background

Kiribati has a long and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 1000 BC. The country was first discovered by European explorers in the 16th century, with the first recorded visit being by the Spanish explorer Alvaro Saavedra in 1565. In the late 19th century, Kiribati was a British protectorate, and in 1916, it became a British colony. The country gained independence on July 12, 1979.

During World War II, Kiribati played an important role in the Pacific Theater, with the country's atolls serving as a strategic location for Allied forces. The country's history has also been marked by significant environmental challenges, including rising sea levels and climate change. In 2013, Kiribati became the first country to declare climate change a national security threat.

Key Information

- Capital: Tarawa - Population: 119,449 - Area: 811 square kilometers - Language: Gilbertese (official), English (widely spoken) - Currency: Australian dollar (AUD) - Government: Parliamentary republic - Economy: Fishing, agriculture, tourism - Climate: Tropical - Time zone: UTC+12

Kiribati is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage. The country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Phoenix Islands Protected Area, which is one of the largest marine protected areas in the world. Kiribati is also a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, with its clear waters and diverse marine life.

Significance

Kiribati is a significant country in the Pacific region, with a rich culture and history. The country's experience with climate change and rising sea levels has made it a leader in the global effort to address these issues. Kiribati has also played an important role in regional and international organizations, including the Pacific Islands Forum and the United Nations.