Natives and Dancing

There is so much beauty in native populations.  A richness of culture and history that we have often destroyed throughout the centuries.  Australia and New Zealand are examples of what happens when such cultures are encountered.

The original inhabitants of Australia came from Africa 60,000 years ago.  It is thought because of a lower sea level they managed to make their way almost to Australia.  The actual distance, by sea, between Australia and New Guinea and Timor may have been as little as 90 kilometers.  Humans at that time did not have boats so it is thought that initial arrivals came by accident perhaps carried on drifting debris or on flotsam driven across by a tsunami.  Given the genetic homogeneity of the aboriginal population it is reckoned that perhaps a single pregnant female made the journey.

When Captain Cook arrived on the coast of Australia it had had a dramatic effect on the local native population.  The number of aborigines dropped from 300,000 to 60,000 and their lands were taken and they were not allowed to vote until 1967.  The aborigines did not have any idea of land ownership so the white settlers took over their land with relative ease.  Smallpox and other diseases, brought by the invaders, decimated the native population.  The decimation of the local inhabitants was dramatic and severe.  They suffered discrimination and on Tasmania they were eradicated completely, as if they were an unwanted infestation.

When Captain Cook later landed in New Zealand they may have expected a similar non-aggressive response from the natives of this smaller island east of Australia.  However, a very different type of native was encountered.  The Maori’s were far from the peace loving aborigines and had a warrior culture. This meant their reaction to the visitors was so hostile it would be 127 years before any white man would again attempt to enter their territories.  It must have become instantly apparent this particular native population would be no easy walk over.

Everyone is familiar with the All-Black’s rugby teams dance at the start of every match.  But the use of Maori dance to express a wider range of emotions is less well known.  I found the use of this art form to express grief unusually moving.  The release of anger and rage is dramatically felt as well as the powerful spirit of respect to their colleague.

Knowledge of the richness of such native cultures should enrich our understanding and development. They have much to teach us in terms of respect of both human nature and the environment.