The first Japanese traders arrive in Chuuk, including Koben Mori, great-grandfather of President Manny Mori.

What happened

Hezel said the first Japanese traders included Koben Mori, son of a samurai, and Mogahira Shirai, who had fought in the Meiji Restoration wars. Japanese firms soon set up stations in Chuuk and Pohnpei, dealing in alcohol, explosives and chinaware, with Mori as a resident agent.

Why it matters

Mori’s great-grandson Emanuel “Manny” Mori served two terms as president of the FSM.