Germany purchased the islands from Spain in 1898. They were occupied in1914 by Japan; in 1920, the League of Nations gave it a mandate over the islands. During World War II, USA forces captured the islands, and in 1947, they became part of the US Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. In 1979, the islands became a self-governing nation known as the Federated States of Micronesia. In 1986, independence was attained under a Compact of Free Association with USA, which was amended and renewed in 2004.

Both music and dance are very important modes of expression in Micronesian societies and often serve to transmit islander identity and commemorate history. Oral literature occupies a special place among the arts in Micronesian societies. The Yapese stick dance is performed by men, women and children together, while standing dances are performed either by women or men and boys, but never both together.

Located in the Pacific Ocean, the Federated States of Micronesia consists of 607 islands that vary geologically, from high mountainous islands to low, coral atolls. Volcanic outcroppings can be found on Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Chuuk.