Caroline Islands

Caroline Islands, archipelago, western Pacific Ocean, consisting of more than 600 islands, atolls, and islets that cover about 1,165 sq km (450 sq mi). Formerly part of the United States Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, the Carolines are divided politically into the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau. The Federated States comprise two large islands, Pohnpei (formerly Ponape) and Kosrae, and two island groups Chuuk (formerly Truk) and Yap. Agriculture and fishing are the main economic activities. Products include coconuts, cassava, sweet potatoes, copra, tapioca, bonito and other fish, sugar cane, and handicrafts. Ruins on some of the islands indicate early settlement and possible contact with Chinese civilization. The islands were visited by Spanish navigators in the early 16th century, but were not colonized by Spain until the late 19th century. Sold to Germany in 1899, the islands came under Japanese mandate following Germany’s defeat in World War I. During World War II some of the islands (notably Chuuk) were heavily bombarded by US forces. In 1947 the islands were placed under United Nations trusteeship and administered by the United States. In 1979 all of the Caroline Islands except the Palau Islands united to form the Federated States of Micronesia. In 1994 the Palau Islands also became independent.