Pacific Islands Overview Flashcards

Pacific Islands Overview

• The Pacific Islands are divided into three main regions: Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia, each with distinct cultural and geographic characteristics.

Melanesia

• Includes countries like Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.
• Papua New Guinea is notable for its ethnic diversity, with over 700 languages spoken.
• The economy relies on subsistence agriculture and mining, with significant natural resources like gold and copper.

Micronesia

• Characterized by small islands, primarily coral atolls.
• Guam is the largest and a US possession, with a significant military presence.
• Economic activities include tourism and fishing, but many islands face challenges due to limited resources.

Polynesia

• Encompasses a wide range of islands, including Hawaii and Easter Island.
• The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, with fishing and farming as traditional livelihoods.
• Hawaii has a modern economy based on tourism and military presence, while many other islands face environmental challenges due to climate change.

Environmental Concerns

• The Pacific Islands face significant environmental issues, including the impact of climate change, rising sea levels, and the effects of nuclear testing in some regions.

Key Takeaways

• The Maori culture remains a vital part of New Zealand's identity, while the Pacific Islands showcase diverse cultures and economies heavily influenced by geography and historical colonization.
• Agriculture is a common economic activity across the regions, with tourism emerging as a significant sector in many islands.
• Environmental challenges threaten the sustainability and livelihoods of the populations in these regions.