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Vaitupu is the largest atoll of the nation of Tuvalu. There are almost 1,600 people living on 5.6 km2. Vaitupu means 'the fountain of water'. The exact date of Vaitupu's first settlement is unknown.

According to oral history, the founder of the Vaitupuan community was a Samoan by the name of Telematua, who arrived in the 16th or 17th century. However, it is possible that Tongans may have first reached the atoll during the mid-13th century. Vaitupu has maintained contacts with Tonga throughout its history, both peaceful and hostile. (More...)