Nauru

Nauru is an island country in Micronesia, a subregion of Oceania, in the Central Pacific. It is the third smallest country by land area in the world, and the smallest republic. Its population is approximately 10,000.

Geography

Nauru is a 21 square kilometers (8.1 sq mi) oval-shaped island in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, 55.95 kilometers (34.77 mi) south of the equator. The island is surrounded by a coral reef, which is exposed at low tide and dotted with pinnacles. The presence of the reef has prevented the establishment of a seaport, although channels in the reef allow small boats access to the island.

History

Nauru was first inhabited by Micronesians and Polynesians at least 3,000 years ago. There were traditionally 12 clans or tribes on Nauru, which are represented in the 12-pointed star on the country's flag. The British sea captain John Fearn, a whale hunter, became the first Westerner to visit Nauru, in 1798, calling it "Pleasant Island".

Economy

Nauru's economy depends almost entirely on phosphate deposits, which originate from the droppings of sea birds. The phosphate was discovered in 1900, and mining began in 1907 by a German-British consortium, the Pacific Phosphate Company. The company exported its first shipment in 1907 to Australia.

Government and politics

Nauru is a republic with a parliamentary system of government. The president of Nauru is both head of state and head of government. The country is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, the Asian Development Bank and the Pacific Islands Forum.

Culture

The culture of Nauru reflects its Micronesian, Polynesian, and Western influences. Traditional music, arts and crafts, and dance are part of the cultural life. The national sport is Australian rules football.

See also

• List of cities in Nauru
• Nauru at the Olympics
• Nauru national football team

Nauru Resources
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