Tokelau Colonial Records

United States Colonization (1856-1979)
The United States claimed sovereignty over the island of Tokelau and other atolls in 1856. In 1979, Tokelau was conceded to New Zealand sovereignty.

British Colonization (1877-1926)
Tokelau came under British sovereignty in 1877. In June 1889, Tokelau got British Protectorate status and became a colony. By 1926, Tokelau became a dependent dominion and considered a New Zealand territory.

New Zealand Colonization (1926-today)
Tokelau was made a dependency as a New Zealand territory in 1926. in 1994, it had vast self-governing powers but not the status of an independent country.