CHAPTER 32

The Pacific Islands Section 1: Natural Environments Section 2: History and Culture Section 3: The Region Today

SECTION 1

Natural Environments

Question:

What are the similarities and differences between the Pacific’s high islands and low islands?

SECTION 1

Natural Environments HIGH ISLANDS • formed by volcanoes or oceanic rock • mountainous and rocky • fresh water • rich, volcanic soils LOW ISLANDS • subject to natural phenomena such as tsunamis and volcanoes • made of coral • small and flat • often ring-shaped • little freshwater • generally found in groups • thin soil

SECTION 2

History and Culture

Question:

What are some of the foreign influences in the history of the Pacific Islands region?

SECTION 2

History and Culture 1520s Europeans begin to explore the Pacific Islands.

1898 United States captures Guam.

1940s Pacific region becomes the site for World War II battles and bases.

Post-World War II Many islands move away from colonization to independence.

1500 1900 1950 2000

SECTION 3

The Region Today

Question:

How are the Pacific Islands’ economies, demography, and challenges linked?

SECTION 3

The Region Today Small markets on islands make industrialization difficult.

Economic activities like mining have damaged the environment.

The Pacific Today Ethnic divisions have sometimes led to political violence.

Emigration has led to shortage of skilled workers.

Population growth has resulted in overcrowding.

CHAPTER 32

Chapter Wrap-Up 1. What are the two types of islands in the Pacific? What are their origins?

2. What geographic factors helped a large number of languages to develop in the region?

3. What food crops have traditionally been important in the region? What uses did Pacific Islanders find for the coconut palm?

4. Why is manufacturing not a major factor in the region’s economy?

5. What are the three patterns of human movement in the Pacific Islands today?