Gilbert Islands separated, and the Gilberts became the Gilbert Islands colony, which issued stamps under that name. In 1979, the Gilberts opted for independence, becoming the independent nation of Kiribati. The Ellice Islands became the independent nation of Tuvalu. Asian Development Bank. (2009b). Kiribati’s political economy and capacity development [Online]. Available: http://www.adb.org/documents/reports/KIR-Political-Economy-Capacity-Development/KIR-Economic-Development.pdf (accessed 6 February 2012). Bedford, R., Macdonald, B., & Munro, D. (1980). Population estimates for Kiribati and Tuvalu, 1850-1900: Review and speculation. Journal of the Polynesian Society, 89, 199-246. Borovnik, M. (2006). Working overseas: Seafarers' remittances and their distribution in Kiribati. Asian Pacific Viewpoint, 47, 151-161. Burnett, G. (2005). Language
Solomon Islands Independence Medal Solomon Islands Independence Medal The Solomon Islands Independence Medal was created in 1978 to commemorate the transition from self-government to the full independence of the Solomon Islands. It is a part of the Solomon Islands honours system. The medal is round, made of silver coloured metal. The obverse bears the Cecil Thomas portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, surrounded by the inscription "Elizabeth II Dei Gratia Regina F:D:". The reverse bears the Coat of Arms of the Solomon Islands surrounded by the inscription "Solomon Islands Independence Medal 1978". The medal is held by a ring suspension to a ribbon of equal