Geography of The Yap Islands
Yap, an island group in the Caroline Islands and a part of the Federated States of Micronesia. Yap is in the western Pacific Ocean about 800 miles (1,300 km) east of the Philippines. There are four large islands and numerous small ones, surrounded by coral reefs. Yap has an area of about 46 square miles (119 km2). The islanders are Micronesians and numbered 13,900 in 1990. Principal products are copra (dried coconut), fish, and various tropical fruits and vegetables.
Yap was under Spanish control from the late 17th century until sold to Germany in the late 19th century. Germany held the islands until they were seized by Japan in World War I. Despite protests by the United States, the League of Nations mandated Yap to Japan after the war. The Japanese operated military bases here during World War II. The United States took possession after the war, and in 1947 Yap became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands under United States administration. In 1986 Yap became part of the self-governing Federated States of Micronesia.