On 12 July 1979 the Gilbert Islands in the central Pacific gained independence from British rule. The country then became known as Kiribati. This film shows the lifestyle of the people of these thirty-three islands, their history and culture, the natural resources and the effects of colonialism, World War II, nuclear testing and foreign industry. It also records the celebrations that took place at this important moment in the country’s history and looks to the nation’s future.

(1979, 52 minutes) Produced for the Government of the Republic of Kiribati by Film Australia and the Australian Development Assistance Bureau.

© National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.