Pohnpei is the largest island of the eastern Caroline Islands. Pohnpei (also spelled Ponape) lies in the western Pacific Ocean, 750 miles (1,207 kilometers) southeast of Guam. The island, which consists of volcanic rock surrounded by coral reefs, has an area of about 130 square miles (337 square kilometers). About 20,000 people live on Pohnpei.
The shores of Pohnpei are mangrove swamps, saltwater swamps filled with mangrove trees. Firm ground with rich vegetation lies inland. Mountains rise more than 2,300 feet (700 meters). Pohnpei is famous for its fine yams. Other crops include coconuts, taros, bananas, breadfruit, and limes. The climate is moist and hot, with heavy rainfall between June and September.
Germany bought Pohnpei from Spain in 1899. Japan, an enemy of Germany during World War I (1914-1918), occupied Pohnpei in 1914. The Treaty of Versailles gave it to Japan in 1920. During World War II (1939-1945), Japan used the island as an air base. After the war, Japan surrendered it to the Allies.
The United States took control of Pohnpei as part of a United Nations trusteeship in 1947. In 1980, Pohnpei and other Caroline Islands formed the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). In 1986, these islands became a self-governing country in free association with the United States. Under free association, the United States must provide the FSM with defense and economic assistance. The town of Palikir, on Pohnpei, is the nation’s capital.
See also Caroline Islands; Micronesia, Federated States of; Pacific Islands, Trust Territory of the.
