HISTORIC TIMELINE
1000Settlement of Palau
Palau was originally settled by migrants from Maritime Southeast Asia.
1885Spanish East Indies
Palau was incorporated into the Spanish East Indies.
1899Transfer to Germany
Palau was sold to Germany following Spain's defeat in the Spanish–American War.
1919Japanese South Seas Mandate
Palau became part of the Japanese-ruled South Seas Mandate after World War I.
1944Battle of Peleliu
A major battle during World War II took place between American and Japanese forces.
1947Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands
Palau was placed under U.S. administration as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
1994Sovereignty and Compact of Free Association
Palau gained full sovereignty under a Compact of Free Association with the U.S.