This article traces the changing role of migration in the Federated St
ates of Micronesia during the twentieth century. We begin with a brief
geographical, historical, and cultural overview of each state in the
country, summarizing demographic change over the past 70 years and pro
viding a foundation for understanding much of the area's past and pres
ent human mobility. Attention then turns to migration within the Feder
ated States, focusing on data from censuses conducted in 1930, 1973, a
nd 1980 and using supplemental information when possible. Emigration t
o destinations outside the country is examined briefly. Finally, we di
scuss potential causes and impacts of mobility in this emerging island
nation.