Tongan Archaeology and the Tongan Past, 2850–150 B.P.

Author: Burley D.V.

Source: Journal of World Prehistory, Volume 12, Number 3, September 1998 , pp. 337-392(56)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Archaeological research in the Kingdom of Tonga has documented a continuous sequence of human settlement, adaptation, and change for the period 2850–150 B.P. Tongan culture history is synthesized using a four phase chronology that includes an Early Eastern Lapita Ceramic Period, a Polynesian Plain Ware Ceramic Period, an aceramic Formative Development Period, and a Complex Centralized Chiefdom Period. Beyond description of the archaeological record for this chronology, discussions center on a history of archaeological research in the Kingdom, a review of complementary data sources and approaches that inform upon the Tongan past, and an examination of Tongan data within the broader framework of Fijian/Western Polynesian prehistory. Problems and challenges for future archaeological studies in Tonga are identified as a conclusion.

Keywords: Tonga; Polynesia; archaeology; Lapita; chiefdom

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Department of Archaeology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, B.C., Canada V5A 1S6

Publication date: 1998-09-01