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History
Sighted in 1529 by Spanish navigator. Made German protectorate
in 1885. Taken by Japan in 1914. Made League of Nations Mandate
to Japan in 1919. Captured by US forces during world war two
in 1944. UN Trust territory 1947 to the United States. Until
September 1991 it was an Associated State of the United States.
The US was responsible for foreign affairs and defense.
These islands include Bikini and Enewetak where nuclear testing
in the atmosphere and in the ocean took place. In this area there
have been reports of continuing radiation damage from nuclear
testing which ceased in 1958.
Admitted to membership of the UN in September 1991
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