Micronesia

  • Spain made the islands a colony in the late 1800s.

    People from surrounding islands came to Micronesia more than 2,000 years ago. Spain made the islands a colony in the late 1800s. Germany and Japan later took control. The United States won the islands from Japan during World War II (1939–45). The Federated States of Micronesia gained independence in 1986. However, the U.S. military still protects the country.
  • negotiation with us

    Micronesian leaders began negotiations with the United States for full self-government.
  • The constitution that was drafted

    The constitution that was drafted in 1975 became the basis for the federated government that went into effect in 1979.
  • Bailey olter suffering from stroke

    Bailey Olter suffering an incapacitating stroke in July
  • flooding in Micronesia

    Typhoons, flooding, and mudslides caused widespread destruction in 1996 and again in 1997, and in 1998 a prolonged drought
  • The articles of the compact allow the Federated States of Micronesia to become fully independent and alter its relationship

    The articles of the compact allow the Federated States of Micronesia to become fully independent and alter its relationship with the United States at any time, providing this change of status is approved in plebiscites. Although the original compact had a 15-year duration, it was renewed by mutual consent in 2003 for another 20 years, with some amendments. The renewed compact came into force in 2004. The Federated States of Micronesia became a member of the UN on Sept. 17, 1991.