Micronesia

The approximately 2,100 islands of Micronesia are scattered over 3 million square miles in the western Pacific Ocean Their total land mass, however, is similar to the State of Rhode Island.

The Islands' unique landscapes, formed by volcanic activity and featuring mountains, coral atolls, rain forests, and colorful lagoons, fostered a world of exceptional cultures. Many of Micronesia's unique cultural values are threatened by forces of change.

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Culture

The structure of society on each Micronesian island is a fragile resource, treasured by its people, but facing extinction in the modern world. Yes, Micronesians are committed to preserving not only their ancient artifacts but also living traditional that give them meaning.

Micronesian culture, lore about traditional navigation and fishing, and legend are revealed through songs, stories and dances. Remarkable skills in wood carving, canoe building, navigation, architecture and weaving have been passed down from one generation to the next, but are rapidly disappearing

Early colonial and military history has been preserved in German plantation houses and churches; Spanish fortification; Japanese roads, buildings and ports; sunken American whalers and pirate ships. Bomb-blasted buildings rusted cannons and warships on the sea bottom are stark reminders of a tragic, painful period in Micronesian history.

In the Marshall Islands, Archaeologists have uncovered ancient villages over 2,000 years old.

Ruins of great stone cities and tomb complexes overrun with thick mangrove trees lie below the high volcanic peaks of Kosrae and among the coral reefs of Pohnpei. Chuuk's hilltops are crowned with ancient stone-walled forts. Yap's jungles hide elaborate stone paths, plazas and dancing sites lined with carved "money" stones up to six feet in diameter.

On Palau, much of the landscape is sculpted into mysterious terraces, and on Guam, Saipan and nearby islands, mushroom-shaped "latte stones" were build to support large buildings whose uses are lost in the haze of ancient histories.

History

The rich Pacific history of Micronesia reflects a panorama of societies buffeted for centuries by warring and trading nations of the east and west.

Archaeological and linguistic evidence indicates that the islands were first settled over 2,000 years ago. Vigorous and diverse cultures developed in each island group, linked by a far-flung network of trade and commerce conducted by intrepid voyagers in outrigger sailing canoes.

Spanish sailors, including Magellan, were the first Europeans to explore Micronesia. The Marinas also served as a main stopping point for the famous Manila Galleon trade. They found inhabited islands rich in copra, sandalwood, turtles and pearls, and seas traversed by schools of whales. They established colonies on many of the islands they explored. The Spanish flag flew over Northern Marianas and Guam beginning in the 1500's.

In 1885, Germany took possession of the Marshall Islands, while Spain retained control of other Micronesian island groups. By 1898, however, all of Spain's possessions had been sold to Germany, with the exception of Guam which had been taken by the United States during the Spanish-American War.

After Germany's defeat in the First World War, Japan administered most Micronesian islands under a League of Nations mandate. Fierce battles between the Japanese and Allied Forces were fought on the islands during World War II. After the war, the United States administered much of Micronesia under United Nations auspices. The islands were known as the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.

Guam remains a territory of the United States. The island Republic of Nauru and the vast atoll group of the Republic of Kiribati, both members of the British Commonwealth, are independent nations. In the 1970's citizens of the old Trust territory organized four new governments: the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. Of these, the Marianas are an American commonwealth, and the other three are in a unique relationship with the United States known as "Free Association."

The Threat

The demands of modern society and a cash economy threaten important aspects of the Micronesian cultural heritage. As older generations disappear so do ancient skills and knowledge. Younger Micronesians leave the islands seeking opportunities elsewhere.

Much-needed development projects, including roads, harbors, airports and hotels can endanger ancient sites.

Artifacts are removed from prehistoric tombs and from World War II and prehistoric sites, while modernization displaces traditional values.

In addition, natural hazards such as the encroaching jungle, tidal waves, typhoons and earthquakes erode and destroy historic dwellings.

The Need for Assistance

Change is coming to Micronesia. New roads are being built, new harbors constructed. Industries are developing, and hotels are rising to accommodate growing tourism.

Micronesia needs economic development and welcomes changes that improve its people's standard of living. But Micronesians do not want to sacrifice their history and cultures.

Unfortunately, resources are in short supply. Modern museum facilities are badly needed, as are studies to document sites and cultures. Systems must be set up to ensure the endurance of lore and arts from the past.

Safeguards must be taken against souvenir seekers and vandals. The tropical climate and jungle growth contribute to the deterioration of important sites and artifacts.

Ultimately, a well-planned historic preservation effort requires a partnership between the Micronesian governments, corporations, and individuals.