The archipelago of "The Friendly Islands" was united into a Polynesian kingdom in 1845. It became a constitutional monarchy in 1875 and a British protectorate in 1900. Tonga acquired its independence in 1970 and became a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. It remains the only monarchy in the Pacific.

Tonga is the only independent monarchy in the South Pacific. It holds a unique place as the last remaining unspoiled example of a Polynesia culture.

Area:

total: 748 sq. km
land: 718 sq. km
water: 30 sq. km

comparative: four times the size of Washington, DC

Climate:

Tropical; modified by trade winds; warm season (December to May), cool season (May to December)

Terrain: most islands have limestone base formed from uplifted coral formation; others have limestone overlying volcanic base.

Population: 104,227 (July 2001 est.)

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The government is emphasizing the development of the private sector, especially the encouragement of investment, and is committing increased funds for health and education. Tonga has a reasonable basic infrastructure and well-developed social services.