Gilbert and Ellice Islands facts for kids

A 3-pence stamp from the Gilbert and Ellice Islands, 1939.

The Gilbert and Ellice Islands was the name for a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean. These islands were once controlled by the British. First, they were a 'protectorate' starting in 1892. This meant Britain protected them and had some control. Later, in 1916, they became a 'colony'. This meant Britain had full control over the islands.

The Gilbert and Ellice Islands were made up of two main groups of islands. On January 1, 1976, these islands were separated into two different British colonies. Soon after, they became independent countries. The Gilbert Islands became the main part of the new country called Kiribati in 1979. The Ellice Islands became the country of Tuvalu in 1978.

Understanding the Islands' History

How the Islands Became British

The British first took control of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands in the late 1800s. They declared the islands a protectorate in 1892. This was a way for Britain to extend its power. It also helped protect the islands from other European countries.

Later, in 1916, the islands officially became a British colony. This meant they were directly ruled by the British government. This period lasted for many years.

Life Under British Rule

During the time the islands were a colony, the British set up a government. They introduced their own laws and systems. People on the islands lived under British administration. The British also used the islands for trade and resources.

The Islands Gain Independence

After many years, the islands began their journey to independence. On January 1, 1976, the Gilbert and Ellice Islands were officially split. They became two separate colonies. This was the first step towards becoming independent nations.

The Birth of Tuvalu

The Ellice Islands were the first to gain full independence. They became the country of Tuvalu in 1978. Tuvalu is a small island nation. It is known for its beautiful atolls and lagoons.

The Birth of Kiribati

The Gilbert Islands followed soon after. They became the main part of the new country of Kiribati in 1979. Kiribati is a larger nation. It includes many islands spread across a vast area of the Pacific.

Images for kids

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  Map of the Southern Gilbert Islands, Ellice Islands and Tokelau, 1884

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  Portrait of a native of the Makin islands, drawn by Alfred Thomas Agate (1841)

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  SS Tokelau: Government Steamer Gilbert & Ellice Islands Protectorates (30 April 1909)

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  Fanning Island or Tabuaeran

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  Aichi D3A Japanese plane wrecked in Tarawa

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  10 shillings note of the Japanese occupation currency, 1942

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  1956 stamps of the Gilbert and Ellice Island Colony

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  1968 Gilbert & Ellice stamp, after A$ first introduction, representing the coat of arms of the colony (1937–1976)

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  1911 stamp of the Gilbert and Ellice Island Protectorate

See also

In Spanish: Islas Gilbert y Ellice para niños