Canton and Enderbury Islands, Pacific atolls in central Kiribati
Canton and Enderbury are two coral atolls located in the central Pacific, roughly 2,975 kilometers (1,850 miles) south of Hawaii. These islands form part of the Phoenix Islands Protected Area, with only Canton supporting a small population today.
The United States and United Kingdom established joint administration in 1939, an arrangement that lasted until 1979. This condominium agreement was an unusual solution to resolve competing territorial claims in the Pacific.
American settlers arrived on Enderbury in 1938 as part of a territorial claim effort, leaving behind structures that still stand today. The islands reflect this chapter of mid-20th century Pacific settlement attempts.
The islands are difficult to reach and require permits for visits, as they are now part of a marine protected area. Visitors should prepare for limited services and harsh environmental conditions.
A radio station built in 1937 on Canton served as a crucial communications hub for Pacific military and naval operations during the war years. This facility represents an overlooked chapter of World War Two infrastructure in the remote Pacific.
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