Easter Island or Rapa Nui was first discovered by Polynesian voyagers between 800 and 1200 CE. The voyager were led by the legendary King Hotu Matu’a across the Pacific Ocean. It was on 5th April 1722, Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen became the first European to establish contact with this remote island.
Where is Eastern Island Located?
Easter Island is a volcanic island located in the Southeastern Pacific Ocean. It is recognised as a special territory of Chile and is located 3500 kms west of Chile.
Who were the First Settlers of Easter Island?
Polynesian sailors were the first sailors of Easter Island. Oral traditions name Hotu Matu'a as the first king of Easter Island. He sailed from a mythical land called Hiva in two large canoes. He brought his family and extended clan to the island. They introduced crops like bananas, taro, and sugarcane to the isolated land.
Modern carbon dating suggests that the island was inhabited during 800-1200 CE.
Centuries later, Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen sighted the island on Easter Sunday on 5th April, 1722. He named it Paasch-Eyland, meaning Easter Island. He led a fleet of three ships. His crew stayed for one week. They documented the massive stone statues and the indigenous population. Roggeveen believed that there was a mythical continent named Terra Australis Incognita and was exploring the Pacific ocean when he saw this island.
Timeline of Settlement in Easter Island
The following is a timeline of the timeline of the settlement of people in Easter Island.
1. 800-1200 CE: Polynesian settlers arrive and establish the Rapa Nui civilization.
2. 1250-1500 CE: The Rapa Nui people carve over 900 Moai statues.
3. April 5, 1722: Jacob Roggeveen arrives and records the first European contact.
4. 1770: Spanish navigators arrive and claim the territory for Spain.
5. 1774: British Captain James Cook visits and notes a depleted population.
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