polyneský

Polynéský refers to a subregion of Oceania, comprising a vast triangle of islands in the central and southern Pacific Ocean. The points of this triangle are roughly the Hawaiian Islands, Easter Island, and New Zealand. This cultural and linguistic area encompasses a diverse range of island groups, including Samoa, Tonga, French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, and many others. The term "Polynesian" itself derives from Greek words meaning "many islands."

The peoples of Polynesia share a common ancestry, language family (Polynesian languages, part of the larger Austronesian family), and many cultural traditions. These include distinctive navigation techniques, complex social structures, religious beliefs often involving ancestor worship and a pantheon of gods, and unique artistic expressions like tattooing, carving, and dance. Historically, Polynesians were renowned seafarers, undertaking long voyages across the Pacific in sophisticated outrigger canoes, colonizing these remote islands over centuries. Their cultures have been significantly influenced by interactions with European explorers and subsequent colonization, leading to a blend of traditional practices and modern adaptations. Today, Polynesian cultures continue to be vibrant, with efforts to preserve languages, traditions, and distinct identities across the region.