Tuvalu, formerly the Ellice Islands, consists of nine coral atolls,
none of which rise more than 4.6m (15ft) above sea level.
Britain took control
of the islands in the 1890s and in 1916 joined them to the Gilbert Islands to
form a colony called the Gilbert and Ellice Islands. The two groups were separated
in 1975 and the Ellice Islands were renamed Tuvalu. The country became independent
in 1978.
The people depend on subsistence farming, the raising of pigs and poultry,
and fishing. Exports include clothing and footwear, copra and fruits. Foreign
exchange also comes from the sale of elaborate postage stamps.
There's so much more to learn... Check out our Facts For The Visitor or read up on our reviews of everything about Tuvalu:
