So, during the Spanish period of the Marianas much of the history and economy were centered in Guam. The islands northward of Guam received very little attention. The Spanish Gallons used Guam as a supply station, affording them fresh water, and fresh fruits and vegetables. This was important back then, many died on long voyages because of scurvy and malnutrition.
Tinian once depopulated was used by the Spanish as a game preserve.
Following the Spanish American war, Guam was aquirred by the US under the terms of the Treaty of Paris, December 19,1898.
Spain sold the remaining Mariana Islands to Germany for 4.5 million dollars, in 1899.
Due to the distance of the Marianas from Germany, it proved to be an economic liability.
Tinian continued to be used for a grazing area during this time.
After WW I, the Japanese gained the Northern Mariana Islands, in the treaty of Versailles.
(June 28, 1919)
*information gathered from
Problems of Resettlement of Saipan, Tinian and Rota
Mariana Islands by Neal M. Beal
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