Nauru,
the smallest nation on Earth, is a land rich in natural resources and
history. It is a raised coral island surrounded by a reef and some of
the deepest oceans in the world and covers an area of only eight square
miles.
The Nauruans
are of mixed Polynesian, Micronesian, and Melanesian origin. Because
of the long distances between Nauru and other islands, there was little
contact with other Pacific islanders. The Nauruan language was also
different to other Micronesian languages and a unique dialect was developed.
Nauru
was discovered in 1798 by the English captain Fearn and named Pleasant
Island because of the luxurious coastal vegetation and cooling trade
winds. Its long distance from other main Pacific islands meant Nauru
was left relatively undisturbed by colonial powers. But when beachcombers
and European traders began selling the natives guns, internal wars began.
In 1888, Nauru was annexed by Germany before being occupied by Australia
during WWI, then by the Japanese during WWII.
Nauru
life under Japanese occupation was brutal and many experienced starvation
and other human rights abuses. For this reason an important day for
Nauru is Angam Day on 26 October. The word Angam literally means
homecoming and commemorates the day when
Nauruan exiles
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Letele, Roshni, Sham, Teleiai Su’a
Edwin, Ruta & Olo Elise on arrival at Faleolo Airport. |
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