A state in the western part of the Pacific Ocean, located on the Gilbert Islands (16 atolls), which are adjacent to the Phoenix Islands (8 atolls), Line Islands (8 atolls) and Ocean Island (Banaba). Total area - 861 sq. km. Population - 60 thousand (1979), mainly Micronesians. The capital is on the Tarawa Atoll. The official language is English. Exploration of the islands was begun by the Spaniards in 1606 and continued by other European navigators in 1765-1826. In 1892-1915. Kiribati, together with Tuvalu, were a protectorate and then a colony of Great Britain. During the Second World War, they were temporarily captured by Japan (1941-43). In the post-war period, the struggle of the population for political rights and independence repeatedly forced the British authorities to reform the system of colonial government. In 1963, local advisory bodies began to be created under the British administration. Until 1972, the islands were ruled by the British High Commissioner for Western Oceania (represented by the Resident Commissioner), then the post of governor of the colony, appointed by the British government, was introduced. In 1974, the House of Assembly, a popular legislature, was formed. 1.1 1977 the islands received the status of self-government, in July 1979 they were proclaimed an independent state. The head of state is the president, who is also the prime minister. Elected by the population for 4 years. The basis of the economy is agriculture; coconut, bananas, breadfruit are cultivated. Phosphorites are mined on Ocean Island. The main export commodities are copra and phosphorites.
