Palau explained to kids

Palau is an island country located in the western Pacific Ocean. The country is made up of more than 500 islands, which are divided into 16 states. The total land area of Palau is about 177 square miles. The capital of Palau is Ngerulmud, which is located on the island of Babeldaob. The population of Palau is about 21,000. The majority of the people are of Palauan, Filipino, and Chinese descent. The official languages of Palau are Palauan, English, and Japanese. The economy of Palau is largely based on tourism. Every year, thousands of people visit Palau to see its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and lush rainforests. The government of Palau also earns revenue from the sale of fishing licenses and from the sale of stamps and coins. Palau is a constitutional republic. The president is the head of state, and the prime minister is the head of government. The unicameral Palau National Congress is the country's legislative body. Palau was first inhabited by humans about 3,000 years ago. The first Europeans to visit Palau were Spanish explorers, who arrived in 1543. Palau was later claimed by Spain, Germany, and Japan. After World War II, Palau became a part of the United States-administered Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. In 1979, the people of Palau voted to become a self-governing country. Palau achieved full independence in 1994.