Pacific Islands

Pacific Islands are a broad grouping of over 20,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean. They are traditionally divided into three regions: Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. These islands are home to a diverse range of cultures, languages, and ecosystems.

Geography

The Pacific Islands span a vast area in the Pacific Ocean, covering millions of square kilometers. The islands are traditionally divided into three regions: Melanesia, which includes New Guinea, Fiji, and Vanuatu; Micronesia, which includes Guam, Nauru, and the Federated States of Micronesia; and Polynesia, which includes Hawaii, New Zealand, and Samoa.

History

The Pacific Islands have been inhabited for thousands of years, with the earliest known settlers arriving from Southeast Asia. The islands have a rich history of exploration, colonization, and resistance, with many islands gaining independence in the 20th century.

Culture

The cultures of the Pacific Islands are diverse and complex, with each island group having its own unique traditions, languages, and social structures. Many Pacific Island cultures place a strong emphasis on community, family, and respect for the environment.

Economy

The economies of the Pacific Islands are varied, with some islands relying heavily on subsistence farming and fishing, while others have more developed economies based on tourism, mining, and exports.

Environment

The Pacific Islands are home to a diverse range of ecosystems, from coral reefs and mangroves to rainforests and mountains. However, these ecosystems are under threat from climate change, pollution, and overfishing.

See also

• List of islands in the Pacific Ocean
• Pacific Islander