Kiribati Tabiang History: A Look at the Ancient History of the Island Nation
Kiribati is a small island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean. It is made up of 33 atolls and islands, and is one of the most remote nations in the world. Despite its remote location, Kiribati has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back centuries. Here, we take a look at the ancient history of Kiribati, from the first settlers to the modern day.
The first settlers of Kiribati are believed to have arrived from Southeast Asia sometime around 3000 BC. These settlers were likely part of the Lapita culture, a group of seafaring people who spread across the Pacific in search of new lands. These settlers brought with them their own unique culture and language, which is still evident in the modern day Kiribati language.
The first known written records of Kiribati come from the Spanish explorer Álvaro de Mendaña, who visited the islands in 1568. He named the islands the "Islas de los Reyes" (Islands of the Kings), and described them as "a pleasant and beautiful land."
In the 19th century, the British and American governments began to take an interest in the islands, primarily as a source of coconut oil and copra. In 1888, the British declared the Gilbert Islands (now known as Kiribati) a British protectorate, and in 1916, the islands were officially annexed by the British.
During the 20th century, the islands saw a period of rapid economic growth, fueled by the copra and phosphate industries. In 1979, the Gilbert Islands gained independence from Britain and became the Republic of Kiribati. Since then, the country has seen a period of relative stability and economic development.
Today, Kiribati is a small but vibrant nation, with a population of just over 110,000 people. The country has a strong cultural identity, and the traditional Kiribati language is still widely spoken. The nation is also home to a number of unique species, including the rare and endangered coconut crab.
Kiribati has a long and fascinating history, stretching back thousands of years. From the first settlers to the modern day, the islands have seen a period of great change and development. Today, Kiribati is a vibrant and unique nation, with a rich culture and a bright future.