Wake Island Introduction - 2006

Background:
The US annexed Wake Island in 1899 for a cable station. An important air and naval base was constructed in 1940-41. In December 1941, the island was captured by the Japanese and held until the end of World War II. In subsequent years, Wake was developed as a stopover and refueling site for military and commercial aircraft transiting the Pacific. Since 1974, the island's airstrip has been used by the US military, as well as for emergency landings. Currently, access to the atoll is restricted to official government business.

NOTE: The information regarding Wake Island on this page is re-published from the 2006 World Fact Book of the United States Central Intelligence Agency. No claims are made regarding the accuracy of Wake Island Introduction 2006 information contained here. All suggestions for corrections of any errors about Wake Island Introduction 2006 should be addressed to the CIA.