Micronesia (Federated States of)
Micronesia (Federated States of)
- Capital
- Palikir
- Population
- 115,021
- Region
- Oceania
- Languages
- English
The island of Yap within this nation is famous for its traditional use of Rai stones, which are massive circular limestone discs used as a form of ceremonial currency. Some of these stones are over twelve feet in diameter and were carved from quarries hundred of miles away in Palau before being transported by canoe. While modern currency is used for daily transactions, these giant stones remains legally recognized wealth and are often kept in designated 'stone banks' outside communal houses.
Currency
The official currency is the United States Dollar with the ISO code USD. Interestingly, despite being an independent nation, the Federated States of Micronesia uses the dollar due to its Compact of Free Association with the United States, which provides for shared economic and defense responsibilities.
Flag symbolism
The flag features a light blue field representing the vast Pacific Ocean that surrounds and connects the nation. Four white stars are centered in a circular pattern to represent the four constituent states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. The choice of light blue was intentionally patterned after the United Nations flag to honor the territory's history as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
Emblem history
The national seal is circular and features a floating coconut seedling, which serves as a vital symbol of growth and the primary subsistence crop of the islands. Surrounding the palm are four stars representing the constituent states, echoing the design of the national flag. A scrolled banner at the base displays the national motto, 'Peace, Unity, Liberty,' which was formally adopted when the federation gained its sovereignty.