Category:German Period (1899-1914)

The German period in Micronesia refers to the time between 1899 and 1914 when Germany controlled various islands in Micronesia. Germany purchased the islands from Spain in 1899 following Spain’s defeat in the Spanish-American War. This transfer included the Carolines, the Marianas (except Guam), and the Marshall Islands. The German administration organized the islands into distinct districts, each managed by a district officer. These districts included the Carolines, Marshall Islands, and Marianas. Development: Germany invested in infrastructure, including schools, roads, and communication systems.German missionaries, particularly from Protestant and Catholic backgrounds, were active in the region.

During World War I, Japan occupied the German territories in Micronesia in 1914. Following the war, the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 formalized Japan’s control over the Northern Marianas, the Carolines, and the Marshalls.