Marshall Islands: History

Spain lays formal claim to the Marshall Islands.

The Marshall Islands are given their name by British Naval Captain John William Marshall who sails through the area with convicts bound for New South Wales.

Germany annexes the Marshall Islands from Spain and pays Spain approximately $4.5 million as compensation. 

The Marshall Islands become a protectorate.

The League of Nations grants Japan the mandate to administer the islands.

American forces seize the Marshall islands from Japan.

The Marshall islands become a part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands that was created by the UN, the islands are administered by the United States.

The United States tests a series of 23 nuclear weapons in the Bikini Atoll area at 7 tests sites, including on the reef, by air, underwater, and on the sea.

In preparation of more self- governance in Micronesia, U.S. government sets up the Congress of Micronesia.

The United States begins a long-term project to help decontaminate the Bikini Atoll area following the nuclear tests.

After seeking more political independence, Marshall Islands withdraws from the Congress of Micronesia.

The Marshall Islands gain independence from the United States after the U.S. recognizes Marshall Islands' constitution and government.

Voters on the  Marshall Islands approve the Compact of Free Association with the United States, which is ratified by the US three years later.

U.S's Congress promises compensation to the Marshall Islands for the damages caused by the Nuclear tests.

Radiation levels are considered to be low enough for tourism to return to the Bikini Atoll.

The American president signs a new Compact of Free Association, worth $3.5 billion over 20 years, with the Marshall Islands and Micronesia.

The United States drops the Forum Fisheries Agency treaty with several Pacific Nations, which leaves the Marshall Islands facing a serious shortfall in revenues from fees.