NOTE: This is part three of a thirteen part article. Enjoy!!!
Part III – Polynesian History
A bird of paradise in PARADISE !
Many theories have been offered to explain how people migrated to French Polynesia. Thor Heyerdahl’s 1947 Kon-Tiki expedition suggests that people arrived from South America. But it is more likely the migration started from Southeast Asia 3500 years ago by Polynesian ancestors called Lapita. The migration from Southeast Asia occurred in waves, each migration reaching farther into the Pacific. The Lapita reached French Polynesia about 600 AD and New Zealand in 900 AD. This being the most southern migration on the planet, can truly be called the trip to the end of the earth. The Lapita possessed extraordinary navigational skills. They maneuvered large sailing canoes that carried 70 people and the necessary supplies to start a new life. The Lapita were also expert artisans making pottery with intricate relief and decoration. It is precisely these same patterns that are seen in tribal tattoo art.
A coral beach on Rangiroa; just as ancient visitors may have viewed...
The Polynesians thrived for 1000 years before European explorers changed their destiny forever. At their peak their population blossomed to nearly 100,000. Their island home was a safe and forgiving environment. Their existence was not difficult. Food and shelter was plentiful. This gave them plenty of time to develop arts, crafts, tattooing, song, dance, an oral history and a reverence and spirituality for life demonstrated by social customs and rituals.
Oh........so fragrant
This included freedom to express their sexuality, human sacrifice and cannibalism, characteristics not seen in most other cultures. Their gods reflected social values. Tu was the god of war, Tangaroa the god of the sea and wind. Tiki were enigmatic images that embodied the spirits of revered tribal ancestors. Tiki images decorated boats, paddles, spears, and of course appeared as statues. Tiki had much power and commanded honor and fear. Even today Polynesians respect the frontal gaze of a Tiki. Not having a written language, history and stories were passed on by priests called Tuhuna o’ono, and other learned and respected elders.
More to follow, Part IV is on its way. Suzan
