The Pacific Islands

THE PACIFIC ISLANDSChapter 25 section 2

PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY

Big and small High Islands and Low Islands

BORA BORA AND FAKARAVA

PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY

Volcanic Islands Atolls-Small, ring shaped coral islands that surround a lagoon

HISTORY

People began settling at least 35,000 years ago.

Europeans encountered the islands in the 1500s.

HISTORY

By the 1800s, European powers controlled most of the islands

In WWII, the islands were scene of tough battles

HISTORY

Many islands gained independence, but United States, France, and New Zealand still have territories

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Close to 9 million people Most are descendants of

original settlers Most are Christian

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Fishing, tourism, and agriculture are main industries

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Many live in ancient villages

Hold traditional ceremonies

ISSUES TODAY

Isolation hinders trade

Developing economies

ISSUES TODAY

Health problems from nuclear testing

ISSUES TODAY

Climate change