1. Polynesians

2. The Polynesian Islands include over 1,000 islands. Some of the most easily recognized: Aetearoa-New Zealand Hawaii Samoa Tonga Fiji Rapa Nui-Easter Island Tahiti …and several others, all of which are focused in the Polynesian Triangle.

3. MIGRATION “ Polynesia is a anthropological term used to refer to a pre-colonial population generally belonging to one ethno-cultural family as a result of maritime migration.” Wikipedia.com

4. LANGUAGE There are approximately 40 Polynesian languages. They are classified as part of the Austronesian family and broken into 2 branches: Tongicand Nuclear Polynesian. Most Common Tahitian Samoan Tongan Maori Hawaiian

5. RELIGION Pre Colonial Polynesians Tribal Had the same explanation for the creation of the earth and sky, for the gods that rule aspects of life and for the religious practices of everyday life.

6. Tiki Statues

7. Healers & Chiefs Hawaiians are very dependent on their natural resources. The ancient Hawaiians relied heavily on healers who had a mastery of the healing powers of the regions plants.

8. Boki High Chief in Ancient Hawaii who served the Kingdom of Hawaii as the royal governor of Oahu.

9. ARCHITECTURE The most distinguishable of Polynesian architecture is the thatched roof huts.

10. SOCIAL CUSTOMSin Hawaii The Lei Luaua Music Drums Dance Hula

11. The Lei Lei is Hawaiian for garland or wreath. The lei is often given as a sign of affection. It is given as a greeting or farewell. Lei should never be thrown away. They should be returned to the place they were gathered or returned to the earth respectfully.

12. Luau The Luau is a celebration that always has 2 main components: Food Roast Pig, Poi, Poke and of course BEER! Entertainment Dancing (Hula & Fire) Music

13. Music BruddahIz Ukelle Steel Guitar Drums

14. Dance Hula Dancing Fire Dancers

15. ATTIRE Malo (Loin Cloth) Kiehi (Shawl) Sarong

16. CUISINE Poi Made from the fermented root of the taro plant.

17. Hawaiian Pig Roast

18. Poke A side dish of bite sized raw fish and seasonings.

19. Family Customsin Hawaii Ohana Family (an extended version) This includes blood, adoptive or intentional. 1st & 21st Birthdays Very big events. Celebrated with a Luaua.