Kayangel: History
The state was colonized by Spain from the late 16th century until 1899, when the territory was sold to the German Empire. German control lasted until the First World War, after which Japan administered the atolls. Following the Second World War, the United States governed the area until Palau became independent.
In January 2005, the Palau National Congress passed a joint resolution supporting a 2002 agreement between Kayangel State and Palau Pacific Energy, Inc. (PPE). The agreement granted the PPE exclusive rights to explore, drill, and produce oil in the surrounding marine area for a defined period. The national government had initially opposed the project on environmental grounds but later reconsidered after a 2003 petition from Kayangel residents in favor of exploration.
In 2013, Typhoon Haiyan caused extensive damage to the island, flooding all of Kayangel and destroying every home. Although no fatalities occurred, all 69 residents were affected by the storm