An Overview of the Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands is a country in Malanesia. The islands lay east of Papua New Guinea and northeast of Australia in the South Pacific. The islands include Guadalcanal, Malaita, Santa Isabel, San Cristobal, Choiseul, New Georgia, and the Santa Cruz areas. The capitol is located in Guadalcanal and the city name is Honiara.

Ancient History

In 1886 Great Britain and Germany divided control of the islands, later Britain took control over the area. It is believed that people existed on the islands long before the English discovery, the history of the natives on the islands dates back as far as 30,000 BC. During World War II some of the most intense fighting took place on the islands. The Battle of Guadalcanal was one of the most significant and memorable battles that took place here. It is due to the war battles that the capitol came to be located in Honiara, to take advantage of US Military infrastructures that had been left behind. Following WWII, there were many small revolts. Eventually in 1974 the islands developed a constitution and a system of government was born. In 1976 the islands became self governing with independence following two years later. Without leadership striving to better the country the political tensions escalated.

Modern history

In 1998 Malatians became targets of intimidation and violence. This spurred them to form their own political group of defense called the Malatia Eagle Force. The elected government official was unable to control the two groups fighting, though he tried many avenues. This prompted the Eagle Force to kidnap him where he negotiated his resignation as part of his release. Eventually in two separate peace agreements the tensions appeared to settling down. However, one key Guale leader refused to sign the peace treaty forcing a split in Guale groups. Conflicts soon resumed. In 2003 Australia and the Pacific Island lent assistance to bring the fighting under control. In 2006 political tensions erupted briefly but troops were dispatched and quickly the situation was brought under control.

Culture

Customs are continually passed down from generation to generation. Soccer and netball are the popular sports found in the Solomon Islands. Radio is widely popular as local television networks are unavailable and most satellite broadcasts suffer with a lot of inference in reception. There are three different newspaper offerings, including one online. There are over 60 languages spoken on the islands, including an English form of language known as Creole. There is a small commercial industry basis here with the focus on the needs of the local people. They do trade a small amount of common things such as palm oil, coconuts, and cocoa with other countries. Arranged marriages are popular in this culture, and though some do not practice it today, it still is a common practice. Traditional household roles are still predominant. These include the woman taking care of the home and children. While some women are learning to balance a career with these duties, it is not a popular practice. When visiting the Solomon Islands it is important to make yourself familiar with the common etiquette. When speaking to a woman one is not related to looking away from her is a sign of respect. Girls must be careful not to show friendliness to strangers especially in the company of their male relatives. Boys also follow these guidelines when around their female relatives. The Queen's Birthday, Independence Day, Christmas Day, and New Years are the major holidays celebrated on the islands.

Geography

The Solomon Islands consist of many smaller islands. The distance between the east and west islands is approximately 930 miles. Santa Cruz is the most isolated of the islands with a distance of 120 miles between it and other islands. The islands contain several active and dormant volcanos. This makes some of the soil very fertile for growth and one will find over 230 flower types across the landscape.

Environment

The islands find themselves growing concerned with current environmental issues. Global warning, deforestation, and rising sea levels all threaten their environment. Only 65% of the rural population has access to clear drinking water due to the rise in pollutions and wastes. Twenty one plant types and eighteen bird species are endangered.

Wildlife

The oceans surrounding the islands are full of exotic creatures. The islands are also home to a great variety of birds. Many of the bird species are endangered and rare to see. One will also see reptiles, such as the turtle. Animals such as flying or fruit bats can be seen in the forest.

Food

Traditional food such as yams, taros, and panas will still be found on the islands. The more modern staples such as rice and tea are also vastly popular. Rather than having traditional meal times, the people here eat when they are hungry and enjoy the food with family. Guests will be served first and the best of the food offered as a sign of respect. This tradition is taken very seriously. Water is the typical drink of choice however, they also make drinks with coconuts for special occasions.

Weather

The weather here is very humid and warm. June through August is considered the cooler months of the year. November through April is when the island experiences the most rainfall and occasionally a cyclone.

Politics

Queen Elizabeth II is the monarch of the islands and the head of the state. They practice a parliament government. Locally elected government officials tend to change frequently as they are continually restless with tensions sprouting. There is no official Military organization but they maintain a very large police force which assists with fires, disaster relief, and things of this nature in addition to the police duties. Due to the political tensions in the islands, other countries often scoff at them in the political realm of things.