Nauru

Nauru is an island country in Oceania with its capital in Yaren and about 12,000 people. Nauru is the world’s smallest island country, and its phosphate made it rich, but strip mining badly damaged about 80% of the island.

Nauru in purple, with Yaren marked. Outline from the same detailed coastlines the games use.

Capital: Yaren
Continent: Oceania
Population (2025): 12,000
Land area: 21 km² (8 sq mi)
Island country: Yes, all on islands

Find it among 14 Oceania countries →Explore Nauru on the map Name difficult islands

The story of Nauru

Where the name comes from

Nauru adapts Naoero, the island’s own name; its meaning is uncertain, and the popular translation “I go to the beach” is disputed.

First people

Micronesian and Polynesian communities settled the island long ago.¹

Known for

Nauru is the world’s smallest island country, and its phosphate made it rich, but strip mining badly damaged about 80% of the island.²

Outside contact

Germany annexed it in 1888 and Australia captured it in 1914, running it under a mandate from 1920; Japan occupied it in 1942–1945.³

The modern country

After a trusteeship from 1947, Nauru became independent in 1968.¹

Nearby countries

Quiz yourself on Oceania

Can you place Nauru and its neighbours on a blank map?

Oceania map quiz Oceania capitals quiz Oceania flags quiz