Results for "Coral atolls"
Countries Encyclopedia Entry 1777609275
Kiribati is a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, comprising 33 coral atolls and islands, known for its rich cultural heritage and unique geography. ## Overview Located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Kiribati is a sovereign state situated approximately halfway between Hawaii and Australia. With a total area of 811 square kilometers (313 square miles), Kiribati is one of the smallest countries in the world. The country's name, Kiribati, is derived from the Gilbertese language, meaning "the place of the Gilbert people." The capital and largest city is Tarawa, which is home to over 50% of the country's population. Kiribati is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and the Pacific Islands Forum. Kiribati's unique geography is characterized by its coral atolls and islands, which are scattered across the equatorial Pacific. The country's terrain is generally flat, with some islands featuring small hills and ridges. The climate is tropical marine, with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year. The country's economy is primarily based on fishing, copra production, and remittances from overseas workers. ## History/Background Kiribati has a rich and diverse history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 1300 BCE. The islands were first inhabited by the I-Kiribati people, who migrated from the Marshall Islands and other parts of the Pacific. In the 16th century, European explorers, including Spanish and British sailors, began to visit the islands. In 1890, Kiribati became a British protectorate, and in 1916, it was administered as part of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony. In 1979, Kiribati gained independence from the United Kingdom, with Tarawa as its capital. ## Key Information - **Population:** approximately 119,449 (2020 estimate) - **Area:** 811 square kilometers (313 square miles) - **Capital:** Tarawa - **Language:** Gilbertese (official), English (official) - **Currency:** Australian dollar (AUD) - **Government:** Unitary parliamentary republic - **Economy:** Fishing, copra production, remittances from overseas workers Kiribati is known for its unique cultural heritage, which reflects the country's history and geography. The I-Kiribati people have a rich tradition of storytelling, music, and dance, which is often performed during cultural festivals and ceremonies. The country is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including sea turtles, whales, and tropical fish. ## Significance Kiribati's significance extends beyond its small size and remote location. The country is a key player in the Pacific Islands Forum and has played a significant role in regional and global affairs. In 2019, Kiribati became the first country to declare a climate emergency, highlighting the urgent need for action to address the impacts of climate change. The country's unique geography and cultural heritage make it an important destination for tourists and researchers interested in Pacific Island cultures and ecosystems. INFOBOX: - **Name:** Republic of Kiribati - **Type:** Island nation - **Date:** 1979 (independence from the United Kingdom) - **Location:** Pacific Ocean - **Known For:** Unique cultural heritage, coral atolls and islands, climate change resilience TAGS: Pacific Islands, Island nation, Climate change, Cultural heritage, Coral atolls, Tropical marine climate, Commonwealth of Nations, Pacific Islands Forum.
GeographyCountries Encyclopedia Entry 1778844905
Kiribati is a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, known for its rich cultural heritage and unique geography.
GeographyCountries Encyclopedia Entry 1782391566
Kiribati is a small island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean, known for its rich cultural heritage, unique geography, and resilience in the face of climate change. ## Overview Kiribati, officially the **Republic of Kiribati**, is a sovereign island nation situated in the Pacific Ocean, approximately halfway between Hawaii and Australia. The country comprises 33 coral atolls and islands, with a total land area of approximately 811 square kilometers (313 square miles). The capital and largest city is Tarawa, which is home to over 50% of the country's population. Kiribati is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and has a population of around 119,449 people, according to the 2020 census. The country's name "Kiribati" is derived from the I-Kiribati language, which means "the Gilberts." The I-Kiribati people have a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on community, family, and traditional practices. The country's unique geography, with its coral atolls and islands, has shaped the lives of its people, who have developed a distinct way of life that is closely tied to the sea. ## 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 and Polynesian settlers, who brought with them their language, culture, and customs. In the 19th century, Kiribati was a British colony, known as the Gilbert and Ellice Islands. In 1979, the country gained independence from Britain and became the Republic of Kiribati. In the 1980s, Kiribati faced a significant challenge when it was discovered that the country's land was sinking due to rising sea levels. This led to a major migration of people from the outer islands to the capital, Tarawa, which put a strain on the country's resources and infrastructure. In recent years, Kiribati has become a global leader in the fight against climate change, with the government taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint and adapt to the impacts of rising sea levels. ## Key Information Kiribati is known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches. The country is also home to a diverse range of marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and sea turtles. The I-Kiribati people have a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on traditional practices, such as fishing, sailing, and handicrafts. Kiribati has a unique economy, with a focus on fishing, copra production, and tourism. The country is also rich in phosphate, which was mined extensively in the 20th century. However, the phosphate industry has declined in recent years, and the government is now focusing on developing alternative sources of income. ## Significance Kiribati is significant not only for its natural beauty and cultural heritage but also for its resilience in the face of climate change. The country's experience with rising sea levels and land sinking has made it a global leader in the fight against climate change. Kiribati's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and adapt to the impacts of climate change have inspired other countries around the world. INFOBOX: - Name: Republic of Kiribati - Type: Island nation - Date: 1979 (independence from Britain) - Location: Central Pacific Ocean - Known For: Resilience in the face of climate change TAGS: Climate change, Pacific Islands, Island nation, Micronesia, Polynesia, British colony, Commonwealth of Nations, Coral atolls, Marine life, Traditional practices, Phosphate mining, Tourism.