Pacific Islanders encompass a wide range of cultural groups and nationalities from Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia in the Pacific Ocean.
Polynesia consists of several groups of islands forming a triangle including Hawaii, the Easter Islands, and New Zealand. Melanesia includes Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu Islands, and New Caledonia.
Micronesia is divided into eight territories which include Guam, Kiribati, and the Marshall Islands.
European explorers, including Captain James Cook, sailed to the Polynesian Islands during the 17th and 18th centuries. Shortly thereafter missionaries went to the islands preaching and converting the Polynesians to Christianity. Soon Europe and America were claiming political power over these islands, overthrowing the islands' individual monarchies. However, some traditional monarchies (e.g., Tonga) still thrive today.
The Pacific Islanders live a very social lifestyle, in which family members, both immediate and extended, work together in a solidified community.
Pacific Islanders' cultures follow customs and traditions based on ancient principles that promote living an honorable and noble lifestyle. Embedded deeply into the Polynesian culture are traditional music, dance, and food.
A version of the text on this page was first published on the McKay School of Education website