Pacific islands
Definition
The thousands of islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean, grouped into three cultural regions: Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. These islands developed diverse societies shaped by ocean navigation, fishing, and trade networks long before European contact.
Examples
- Hawaii developed a complex chiefdom system before becoming a U.S. state
- Polynesian navigators used star patterns and ocean currents to sail thousands of miles
- Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga each developed distinct cultural traditions
Key Fact
The three Pacific Island regions are Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia.
Study This Concept
Practice Pacific Islands with free review games in these units: