Polynesian

Any of the seafaring peoples of Polynesia. They migrated by canoe from South Asia in about 2000 BC, peopling the islands of the South Pacific for about 2,000 years, and settling Hawaii last, from Tahiti. The Polynesian languages belong to the Oceanic branch of the Austronesian family.

History Most Polynesian societies were traditionally hierarchical with many chiefly ranks above the commoner level. Many populations were decimated by diseases such as smallpox and measles when they came into contact with the white man in the 18th century. Missionaries undermined the traditional religion and authority of the chiefs. Most Polynesian islands were incorporated into colonial administrations in the 19th century and today many migrate to work in centres like Tahiti and New Zealand.

Main groups The main groups are Samoan (150,000), Maori of New Zealand (100,000), Tongan (75,000), Tahitian (50,000), Hawaian (7,500), Tuamotu (5,000), Raratongan of the Cook Islands (5,000), Uvea of the Wallis Islands (5,000), Marquesan (5,000) and Niuean (5,000).

The Polynesian islands usually support a mixed economy based on fishing, trading and cultivation, though the Maoris, who live far to the south, have adapted to a markedly different climatic zone.