Tahitians

Tahitians, also known as Māʻohi, are the indigenous Polynesian people of Tahiti and other islands within French Polynesia. Their language is Reo Tahiti, a Polynesian language closely related to other languages of the region, such as Māori, Hawaiian, and Rarotongan.

Culture and Society:

Traditional Tahitian culture is rich in oral traditions, music, dance (especially the ʻori Tahiti), and crafts. Social structure historically revolved around chiefs (ariʻi) and priests (tahuʻa), with a complex system of social stratification. Family (known as ʻohana) plays a central role in Tahitian life, with strong intergenerational bonds.

History:

The ancestors of the Tahitians migrated to the islands from Southeast Asia around 1500 BC. They developed a sophisticated culture and navigated extensively throughout the Pacific. European contact began in the 18th century, with explorers like Samuel Wallis and James Cook. The arrival of Europeans brought significant changes, including the introduction of new diseases, religions, and political systems. Tahiti was eventually annexed by France in the 19th century and is now an overseas territory of France known as French Polynesia.

Contemporary Tahitians:

Today, Tahitians continue to maintain their cultural identity while adapting to modern life. Tourism is a significant industry, and efforts are made to preserve and promote Tahitian language and traditions. Contemporary issues faced by Tahitians include cultural preservation, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The population of Tahitians is concentrated on the island of Tahiti and other islands within French Polynesia, with smaller communities existing elsewhere in the world.