A Permanent Exhibit "The Republic of the Marshall Islands and the United States: A Strategic Partnership" The History of the RMI's Bilateral Relationship with the United States

1. Introduction   2.WWII   3.Trust Territory   4. Nuclear Testing 5. Testing Effects 6. Resettlement 7. Constitution 8. RMI HOMEPAGE

Trust Territory

Following World War II, the United States government administered the United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. The Trust Territory extended across six districts: the Marianas, Palau, Yap, Truk, Pohnpei and the Marshall Islands and was the only U.N. Trusteeship Territory designated as a strategic trusteeship.

	Bikini Atoll was the first site selected by the U.S. Government as a ground-zero location. This photograph taken on February 11, 1946, was taken prior to the Bikinians' removal from their home atoll for the testing program.
	Bikinian men take a break from resettlement activities.
	A Bikinian church service on Rongerik Atoll just prior to the Operation Crossroads tests on Bikini Atoll.
	The Bikinians prayed with their ancestors before departing from their home islands.
	Bikinian women prepare the fiber for weaving the mats they need during their resettlement. A U.S. Naval Commander looks on.
	Bikinian women explain weaving techniques to U.S. Navy Commander H.W. Grieve.
	March 1946. In preparation for the testing program, the Bikinians are moved from their home atoll to Rongerik Atoll. Here the Bikinians board LST-1108 with their belongings.
	The Bikinians, on board the LST, make the journey to Rongerik Atoll.
	The Bikinians unload the pandanus thatch they will need to construct traditional homes during their resettlement on Rongerik Atoll.
	May 8, 1946. With the American flag for a backdrop the late King Juda of Bikini held a church service on Rongerik Atoll.

1. Introduction   2.WWII   3.Trust Territory   4. Nuclear Testing 5. Testing Effects 6. Resettlement 7. Constitution 8. RMI HOMEPAGE