Nauru is the smallest island country in the world with an area of 21 km2.
Nauru, officially the Republic of Nauru and formerly known as Pleasant Island, is an island nation in Micronesia located in the South Pacific. Its nearest neighbor is the Banaba Island of Kiribati, 300 kilometers (186 mi) east. Nauru is the smallest island country in the world with an area of 21 km2. According to the 2011 census, with a population of 10,084, it is the country with the least population after the Vatican.
Nauru was first inhabited by Micronesia and Polynesians at least 3000 years ago. In the past, there were 12 tribes on Nauru, and today the 12-pointed star on their official flag represents these tribes.
Nauru's economy boomed in the early 1980s. There are guano reserves in Nauru, which consists of the excrement of seabirds, and these reserves are rich in phosphate and potassium. Nauru's economy depends on these guano reserves. Important necessities are imported. Small scale mining is still done by RONPhos, known as the Nauru Phosphate Company.
Nauru's capital is Yaren, and its largest city is Boe.
