Everything about Gilberts totally explained
The
Gilbert Islands (; formerly
Kingsmill Islands) are a chain of 16
atolls and coral islands in the
Pacific Ocean. They are the main part of the Republic of
Kiribati ("Kiribati" is the rendition of "Gilberts" in Gilbertese.
On
17 August 1942, 221
U.S. Marines of the
2nd Marine Raider Battalion were landed on Makin from two submarines. The raid was intended by the Americans to confuse the Japanese about US intentions in the Pacific. However, it had the effect of alerting the Japanese to the strategic importance of the Gilbert Islands and led to their reinforcement and fortification.
Tarawa and Abemama were occupied in force by the Japanese in September 1942 and during the next year garrisons were built up on
Betio (Tarawa Atoll), and
Butaritari (Makin Atoll). Only nominal forces were placed on other islands in the Gilberts.
On
20 November 1943, the
U.S. 2nd Marine Division invaded, in the battles of
Makin and bloody
Tarawa. The Gilbert Islands were used to support the
invasion of the Marshall Islands in February 1944.
Self-determination
The
Gilbert and Ellice Islands became autonomous in 1971. From 1976 to 1978, the Ellices were separated, and the Gilberts became the
Gilbert Islands colony, which issued stamps under that name. In 1979, the Gilberts opted for independence, becoming the independent nation of
Kiribati.
Further Information
Get more info on 'Gilberts'.
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