Other Definitions
gambier islands (dict)
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Gambier IslandsThe Gambier Islands (les Gambier in French) are a small group of islands in French Polynesia, located at the southeast terminus of the Tuamotu archipelago. They are generally considered a separate island group from Tuamotu both because their culture and language (Mangarevan) are much more closely related to those of the Marquesas Islands, and because, while the Tuamotus are comprised of several chains of coral atolls, the Gambiers, especially the primary island, Mangareva, are clearly of volcanic origin. The highest point in the Gambiers is Mt. Duff, on Mangareva, rising to 482 m (1600 ft) along the island's south coast. Besides Mangareva, the other notable islands of the group are Akamaru, Angakauitai, Aukena, Kamaka, Kouaku, Makapu, Makaroa, Manui, Mekiro and Taravai. These are, like Mangareva, clearly volcanic in origin. A number of others are actually coral islands, including Kauku, Papuri, Puaumu, Totengengie and the Tokorua group The islands are located at 2309' S, 13458' W., and are approximately 31 km² (12 mi²) in area. The total population in the 1988 census was 620. The primary town is Rikitea, located on Mangareva. The islands are surrounded by a coral reef, which is broken by only three passages to the open sea. External Links Death of a People. A look at the missionary influence on the people of the Gambiers, especially Mangareva.
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