The Demographic Evolution of Ebeye

After briefly describing demographic changes in Micronesia over the past four centuries that resulted from contact with more technological advanced societies, described is the demographic evolution of Ebeye in the Republic of the Marshall Islands during the twentieth century, comparing it to that of Majuro Atoll, the present capital. Data from various censuses are used to chronicle Ebeye's extraordinary population growth, which is attributed primarily to increased fertility, survivability, & inmigration. Cultural & ecological consequences of this growth are explored, especially in regard to changes in land tenure, the traditional foundation for the society's authority structure. Current adaptive pressures facing the Marshallese sociocultural system are also examined. 17 Tables, 9 Figures, 65 References. K. Hyatt