This handbook is designed to be useful to people who need a convenient compilation of basic facts about the social, economic, political and military institutions and practices of oceania countries. The title Oceania refers to the land areas of south-central Pacific. However, in the handbook the scope is limited mainly to most of Melanesia, most of Polynesia, and a few islands ordinarily grouped as part of Micronesia. An effort has been made to deal with the political, social, economic, and military trends in these countries since World War II. There are no attempts to make U.S. policy recommendations toward these countries. An extensive bibliography is provided to assist in more detailed information. (Author/AWW)