Which Pacific Island states gained independence after WWII?

Several Pacific Island states gained independence after WWII, including the Philippines, Micronesia, Marshall Islands, Palau, and Nauru.

The end of World War II marked a significant shift in global politics, with many colonies and territories seeking independence. In the Pacific, this was no different. The Philippines, which had been a US territory since the Spanish-American War, was the first to gain independence in 1946. This was followed by a wave of decolonisation in the latter half of the 20th century, with several Pacific Island states gaining independence.

Micronesia, a group of islands in the western Pacific Ocean, gained independence in 1986. Prior to this, it was administered by the United States as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, a United Nations trusteeship. Similarly, the Marshall Islands, which were also part of this trusteeship, gained independence in 1986.

Palau, another group of islands in the western Pacific Ocean, gained independence in 1994. Like Micronesia and the Marshall Islands, Palau was part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. Its path to independence was a complex one, involving a series of referendums and negotiations with the United States.

Nauru, an island country in Micronesia, gained independence in 1968. Prior to this, it was a colony of Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Nauru's independence was largely driven by the discovery of phosphate deposits, which made the island economically viable.

These Pacific Island states' independence was part of a broader trend of decolonisation following World War II. This was driven by a variety of factors, including the weakening of colonial powers, the rise of nationalism, and the influence of the United Nations. The process of decolonisation was often complex and fraught, with many newly independent states facing significant challenges. However, it also represented a significant step towards self-determination and sovereignty for these Pacific Island states.