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Countries Encyclopedia Entry 1780399445

Kiribati is a small island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean, comprising 33 coral atolls and a population of approximately 119,449 people. ## Overview Kiribati, formerly known as the Gilbert Islands, is a sovereign nation situated in the Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia. The country's name, Kiribati, is derived from the I-Kiribati language, meaning "the Gilbert Islands." With a total land area of approximately 811 square kilometers (313 square miles), Kiribati is one of the smallest countries in the world. The capital and largest city is Tarawa, which is home to about half of the country's population. Kiribati is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique history. The country's geography is characterized by a chain of coral atolls, with a total of 33 islands, including the famous Christmas Island. The islands are low-lying and vulnerable to rising sea levels, making climate change a pressing concern for the nation. The climate is tropical, with high temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The country's economy is primarily based on fishing, copra production, and remittances from overseas workers. Kiribati has a rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of Micronesian, Polynesian, and Melanesian influences. The I-Kiribati people have a strong sense of community and tradition, with a focus on family, respect for elders, and a deep connection to the land and the sea. The country's language, I-Kiribati, is a member of the Austronesian language family and is spoken by the majority of the population. ## History/Background Kiribati has a long and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 1000 BCE. The islands were first inhabited by Micronesian settlers, who brought with them their language, culture, and customs. In the 16th century, European explorers, including Thomas Gilbert, arrived in the islands, and the name "Gilbert Islands" was adopted. Kiribati gained independence from British colonial rule on July 12, 1979. During World War II, Kiribati played a significant role in the conflict, with the islands serving as a strategic location for Allied forces. The country's history is also marked by a series of nuclear tests conducted by the United States in the 1940s and 1950s, which had a devastating impact on the environment and the health of the I-Kiribati people. ## Key Information - **Population:** approximately 119,449 people - **Area:** 811 square kilometers (313 square miles) - **Capital:** Tarawa - **Language:** I-Kiribati (official), English (widely spoken) - **Currency:** Australian dollar - **Economy:** fishing, copra production, remittances - **Climate:** tropical - **Natural resources:** fish, copra, phosphate Kiribati is a member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Pacific Islands Forum. The country is also a signatory to the Paris Agreement on climate change and has been actively involved in regional efforts to address the impacts of climate change. ## Significance Kiribati is significant for several reasons. Firstly, the country's unique geography and cultural heritage make it an important part of the Pacific Islands region. Secondly, Kiribati's experience with climate change serves as a warning to the international community about the impacts of rising sea levels and the importance of taking action to mitigate climate change. Finally, Kiribati's history and culture offer valuable insights into the complex and often fraught relationship between indigenous peoples and colonial powers. INFOBOX: - Name: Kiribati - Type: sovereign nation - Date: July 12, 1979 (independence) - Location: Pacific Ocean - Known For: resilience in the face of climate change TAGS: Kiribati, Pacific Islands, climate change, independence, colonial history, Micronesian culture, Austronesian language, tropical climate, fishing industry, copra production.