Nauru

Nauru, a small island in the central Pacific, is the third smallest country in the world. Originally inhabited by Micronesians and Polynesians, it was discovered by Europeans in 1798 and nicknamed "Pleasant Island."

At the end of the 19th century, it was annexed by Germany but came under the control of Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom after World War I, under a mandate of the League of Nations. During World War II, it was occupied by Japan.

Nauru gained independence in 1968, building its economy on phosphate mining, a natural resource abundant on the island. However, intensive exploitation has caused significant environmental damage and an economic crisis.

Today, Nauru faces challenges related to sustainability and dependence on external aid, but remains unique for its culture and history.