The Marshall Islands is a sprawling archipelago located in the central Pacific Ocean, between Hawaii and the Philippines. It lies approximately halfway between Australia and Hawaii, making it a remote but strategically located nation in the Pacific.
Geography
Climate
The Marshall Islands experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The islands receive abundant rainfall, particularly during the wet season from May to November. The trade winds moderate temperatures, but occasional tropical storms and typhoons can bring heavy rains and strong winds.
Fauna
The marine environment surrounding the Marshall Islands is incredibly diverse and teeming with life. The waters are home to a variety of marine species, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and sharks. The islands also support a range of bird species, including seabirds and migratory birds that visit the atolls.
Longest Rivers
Unlike many countries, the Marshall Islands does not have any significant rivers. The geography of the islands, consisting mainly of low-lying coral atolls and small islands, means that freshwater sources are limited. Rainfall is the primary source of freshwater for the inhabitants, supplemented by groundwater and desalination plants.
Highest Mountains
Due to their coral atoll nature, the Marshall Islands are flat and do not have any significant mountains. The highest point in the entire country is located on Likiep Atoll, where a hill known as “Unnamed Hill” rises to just 10 meters (33 feet) above sea level. However, the islands are renowned for their stunning sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, and vibrant marine life.
History
Prehistory
The Marshall Islands have been inhabited for thousands of years by Micronesian peoples who migrated across the Pacific. These early settlers were skilled navigators and fishermen, relying on the ocean for sustenance and trade. The islands were likely first settled around 2,000 to 3,000 years ago.
European Contact
European explorers first encountered the Marshall Islands in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers among the first to arrive. Subsequent visits by British and Russian navigators followed, but it was not until the 19th century that European powers established formal control over the islands. The islands came under German rule in the late 19th century and were later administered by Japan during World War I.
World War II and US Administration
During World War II, the Marshall Islands became a battleground between Allied and Japanese forces. Following Japan’s defeat, the islands came under United States administration as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. The US conducted extensive nuclear testing on the islands during the Cold War, resulting in widespread environmental and health impacts on the local population.
Independence
The Marshall Islands gained independence in 1986, entering into a Compact of Free Association with the United States. Under this agreement, the US provides financial assistance and defense support to the Marshall Islands in exchange for certain rights, including military access to the region. The Marshall Islands is a sovereign nation and a member of the United Nations.
Demographics
The Marshall Islands has a population of approximately 60,000 people, most of whom are of Marshallese descent. The population is spread across the various atolls and islands, with the capital city of Majuro being the largest urban center. The official languages are Marshallese and English, and the majority of the population adheres to Christianity, particularly Protestantism.
Administrative Divisions
The Marshall Islands is divided into 24 municipalities, each comprising one or more atolls or islands. These municipalities are further divided into local government units known as “councils.” The first level administrative divisions and their populations include:
- Ailinglaplap – Population: 2,000
- Aur Atoll – Population: 700
- Bikini Atoll – Population: 200
- Ebon Atoll – Population: 700
- Jaluit Atoll – Population: 1,500
- Kwajalein Atoll – Population: 13,000
- Lae Atoll – Population: 900
- Likiep Atoll – Population: 500
- Majuro Atoll – Population: 30,000
- Maloelap Atoll – Population: 1,200
- Mili Atoll – Population: 900
- Namdrik Atoll – Population: 500
- Rongelap Atoll – Population: 200
- Ujae Atoll – Population: 450
- Utirik Atoll – Population: 400
- Wotho Atoll – Population: 200
- Wotje Atoll – Population: 1,000
10 Largest Cities by Population
- Majuro – Population: 30,000
- Ebeye – Population: 15,000
- Laura – Population: 2,000
- Jaluit – Population: 1,500
- Wotje – Population: 1,000
- Arno – Population: 900
- Mili – Population: 900
- Namdrik – Population: 500
- Ailinglaplap – Population: 500
- Likiep – Population: 500
Education Systems
Education in the Marshall Islands is provided by both public and private institutions. Schooling is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 14, and the government operates a system of primary and secondary schools across the islands. The College of the Marshall Islands offers higher education and vocational training programs, while scholarships enable students to study abroad.
Transportation
The Marshall Islands has limited transportation infrastructure due to its remote location and scattered islands. Transportation primarily relies on boats and small aircraft for inter-island travel. The main airport is Marshall Islands International Airport in Majuro, which serves domestic and international flights. There are no railways or highways, but roads and causeways connect various parts of the atolls.
Country Facts
- Population: 60,000
- Capital: Majuro
- Language: Marshallese, English
- Religion: Christianity (Protestantism)
- Race: Marshallese
- Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
- ISO Country Code: MH
- International Calling Code: +692
- Top-level Domain: .mh