Early Polynesian explorers were skilled mariners able to confidently sail the Pacific by using simple devices known as stick charts. Made from the fronds of palm trees, the stick charts represented ocean swell patterns and the location of known islands. Conventional maps and charts are taken on board the vessel, but stick charts were left behind. The intended course was studied and memorized. The knowledge of making and using stick charts has been lost to modern navigational devices.
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The Marshall Islands were settled by Polynesian people more than 3,000 years ago. In 1526, Spanish explorer Alonso de Salazar claimed the area for Spain. Although it had residual claim, Spain did little to establish an official administrative government. The islands passed to Germany in 1885, and following World War I, were placed under a Japanese mandate. The United States took control after World War II. The Marshall Islands became independent in 1979, but retains close ties with the United States.
