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The long distances between islands and the low elevation of
the land presented a challenge for early Marshall Islanders.
The wave formations provided the clue to the direction of the
next island. This information was passed on through "stick
charts" constructed with thin strips of pandanus wood and cowry shells to
show ocean patterns and islands or atolls. |
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The Marshallese are known
throughout the world for their unique knowledge of fishing
techniques and styles. Their expertise in building canoes that
could travel long distances combined with their exceptional
navigational skills have amazed people around the world.
The Marshall Islands elders explanation of complex navigational concepts were
passed down through generations along with the verbal history
of the islands. |
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There are two major dialects of
the Marshallese language, correlating to the two chains of
Marshal Islands atolls: Ralik and Ratak. However, the difference between the
two dialects is minor and Marshallese is considered
homogeneous. Studies suggest that Marshallese is most closely
related to the languages of Pohnpei, Kosrai, and Kiribati. |
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 Rongelap Island been
uninhabited for many years. The resettlement
of the islanders is a major project geared toward helping them
preserve their livelihood while continuing to protect their
environment.
For more information on the
resettlement project, visit www.visitrongelap.com |
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