The real mystery behind Moana: After 1,700 years, why did Polynesians suddenly sail east?
Summary
Polynesian ancestors paused their eastward ocean voyages for about 1,700 years after settling Samoa and Tonga. New research shows that severe droughts from about 850 to 1200 AD may have pushed them to start exploring and settling distant Pacific islands again.Key Facts
- Polynesians first reached Samoa and Tonga around 3,000 years ago and then stopped moving farther east for 1,700 years.
- Between 900 and 1100 AD, they resumed large migrations, reaching Hawaii, New Zealand, and Easter Island.
- These voyages were made in large double-hulled sailing canoes.
- Evidence of sweet potatoes in Pacific islands suggests contact with the Americas.
- The "long pause" period coincided with a major dry spell in the southwest tropical Pacific.
- Scientists studied hydrogen isotopes in ancient mud to measure past rainfall levels.
- The drought during this time was the driest in the last 2,000 years and happened when island populations were growing.
- Limited fresh water likely made island life harder, encouraging Polynesians to explore and settle new islands.
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