Great Migration

Definition

The Great Migration refers to the significant movement of Polynesians across the Pacific Ocean, which ultimately led to the settlement of New Zealand around 1250-1300 CE. This migration was characterized by a series of oceanic voyages undertaken by skilled navigators using advanced seafaring techniques and knowledge of celestial navigation. The movement resulted in the establishment of new communities and cultural practices in New Zealand, shaping its social, political, and economic landscape.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Migration is believed to have begun as early as 1000 CE and continued until around 1300 CE, during which many Polynesian islands were settled.
2. Navigators relied on a deep understanding of environmental cues, such as wave patterns and wind directions, to successfully navigate their way to New Zealand.
3. Settlements established during the Great Migration led to diverse Māori tribal structures and complex social systems within New Zealand.
4. The arrival of Polynesians marked a significant cultural shift in New Zealand, introducing new agricultural practices and technologies.
5. Oral traditions play a crucial role in preserving the history and stories of the Great Migration, with many Māori tribes having unique narratives about their ancestors' journeys.

Review Questions

• How did Polynesian voyaging techniques contribute to the success of the Great Migration to New Zealand?
  • Polynesian voyaging techniques were vital for the Great Migration as they allowed navigators to traverse vast distances across the Pacific Ocean with remarkable accuracy. Navigators used a combination of celestial navigation, environmental observations, and knowledge passed down through generations to guide their canoes. This expertise in voyaging not only facilitated the successful arrival in New Zealand but also ensured that settlements could be established in various regions across the islands.
• Discuss the significance of Hawaiki in relation to the Great Migration and its impact on Māori identity.
  • Hawaiki holds immense significance in Māori culture as it is considered the ancestral homeland from which Polynesian ancestors migrated. The connection to Hawaiki is deeply ingrained in Māori identity and is reflected in oral traditions that recount their ancestors' journeys across the ocean. This narrative fosters a sense of belonging and continuity among Māori communities, linking them to their past while shaping their cultural practices and social structures.
• Evaluate how the Great Migration influenced social structures and cultural practices among Māori tribes in New Zealand.
  • The Great Migration had a profound influence on social structures and cultural practices among Māori tribes. As new communities formed, distinct tribal identities emerged, leading to varied governance systems and social hierarchies. Additionally, the introduction of new agricultural techniques from the migrants allowed for sustainable food production, which supported population growth and led to more complex societal interactions. Over time, these changes contributed to the rich tapestry of Māori culture we see today, including language, art forms, and spiritual beliefs that are rooted in their migratory history.

Related terms

Polynesian Voyaging: The maritime navigation techniques used by Polynesians, which included star navigation, ocean swells, and bird behavior to traverse vast distances across the Pacific.

Hawaiki: The mythical ancestral homeland of the Polynesians from which they believe their migrations originated; often referenced in oral traditions.

Waka: Traditional Māori canoes used for long-distance travel and migration, which were essential for the Great Migration to New Zealand.