Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands are a country made up of 29 coral atolls in the central Pacific Ocean. The islands form two chains called the Ratak and Ralik chains. The Marshall Islands have a deep connection to the ocean and a rich seafaring tradition. The country has an important role in modern history.

Land and People

About 42,000 people live in the Marshall Islands. The capital is Majuro. The atolls are made of coral and are very flat and low. The country has more ocean than land, with over 750,000 square miles of ocean territory but only about 70 square miles of land.

Culture and Fun Facts

The Marshallese people are skilled navigators who once used stick charts to map ocean waves and currents. The United States tested nuclear weapons on Bikini Atoll in the 1940s and 1950s. Today the country faces challenges from rising sea levels. Marshallese culture values family, sharing, and respect for elders.

Fun Facts

• Ancient Marshallese navigators used stick charts made of palm ribs and shells to map ocean currents.
• The bikini swimsuit was named after Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands.
• The Marshall Islands have more ocean territory than the entire country of Mexico has land.

Did You Know?

The bikini swimsuit got its name from Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands. The designer named it after the atoll because nuclear tests there were making big headlines in 1946.