It is believed that the first Polynesians reached these islands about 300 BC and by 300 AD began to fan out to Rapa Nui (Easter Island), the Cook Islands, Hawaii and New Zealand. European sea captains brought the first reports of these islands to the western world in the 18th century. The most famous accounts were by English captains Wallis, Byron, Cook and Bligh. By the mid-19th century the French had conquered these islands. French Polynesia consists of 118 islands 69 of which are inhabited. 245,000 people live here, 69% on the island of Tahiti. Many islanders resent French attempts to "persuade" them to assimilate. Until recently Polynesian culture, language and history were not part of the educational curriculum. The French Revolution, Napoleon, and French language/literature were required. There is also resentment about the former atomic tests which were undertaken without approval of the native population between 1966 and 1996. 41 atmospheric tests took place. In addition 141 underground tests took place under porous, coral islands probably contaminating a large area of the Pacific. Some tests were held even though scientists knew in advance that wind would carry radioactive fallout over inhabited islands. To this day the French government refuses to let qualified doctors and scientists research and evaluate the impact of these tests on the overall health of islanders and has refused to consider any claims for compensation. The French have poured hundreds of millions of dollars into this area and this has sharply divided islanders, some of whom want independence, some of whom no longer do. I was able to visit the islands of Tahiti and Moorea.

Tahiti is a heavily urbanized island where the large capital city of Papeete is located. 169,674 people live here. It is roughly 40% smaller than Bucks County. There are many significant archeological sites including the royal marae where the king and queen worshipped. The Museum of Tahiti and the Islands has excellent exhibits thoroughly depicting all aspects of Polynesian culture. Nearby is Matavai Bay where Captain Cook landed. Captain Bligh also anchored HMS Bounty here and shortly thereafter disaffected members of the crew conspired to set off the famous "Mutiny on the Bounty."

Moorea is a small, spectacularly beautiful island 12 miles west of Tahiti. It is about 80% smaller than Bucks county and has 12,00 people. On weekends Tahitians come here to escape the stress and urban sprawl of the "mainland." The few villages line the coast. The interior is jungle covered with mountains rising to 3,600 feet and lovely valleys cultivated in the traditional manner. Hundreds of archeological sites , including several marae, dot the landscape. The people are proud of their heritage and many resent attempts to persuade them to assimilate.