Polinésio

Polinésio is a term used to refer to the indigenous peoples of Polynesia, a vast subregion of Oceania. This cultural and linguistic group comprises the inhabitants of the islands scattered across the central and southern Pacific Ocean, including Hawaii, New Zealand (Aotearoa), Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and many others. The term "Polynesia" itself means "many islands" in Greek.

Polynesians share a common ancestry, largely attributed to the Austronesian expansion from Southeast Asia millennia ago. They are renowned for their sophisticated seafaring skills, having navigated vast distances across the Pacific using advanced knowledge of celestial bodies, currents, and wave patterns. This ability facilitated their settlement of remote island chains, each developing distinct cultural practices, languages, and social structures while maintaining underlying similarities.

Traditional Polynesian societies were often hierarchical, with chiefs holding significant authority. Their cultures are rich in mythology, oral traditions, and elaborate artistic expressions, including tattooing, carving, and weaving. Agriculture, particularly taro cultivation, and fishing were central to their subsistence economies. The arrival of Europeans in the 18th century marked a significant turning point, leading to profound social, political, and cultural changes for Polynesian peoples. Today, Polynesian cultures continue to thrive, adapting to modern challenges while preserving their unique heritage.