Pohnpei - History

Relics of Pohnpei's history are prevalent on the island. The most famous are the ruins of Nan Madol, which date back at least several hundred years to a time when the island was ruled by a series of tyrant kings known as the Saudeleurs. My first impression upon seeing these walls was of a huge log cabin, except the "logs" are solid basalt rock! The quarry site has been found far away from the ruins, and it is a real mystery how the builders managed to transport and put into place rocks weighing tons apiece.

More recently, Pohnpei has been occupied by no less than four major colonial powers, the most recent being the U.S. The Spanish claimed the island originally. Later, Germany gained control, but lost its claim after World War I. Between the world wars, Japan controlled the island and built numerous fortifications. During World War II, the Allies opted to bypass and isolate Pohnpei after intense bombing rather than mount a land invasion.

Despite western influences, traditional customs, values, roles, and skills still survive.