Introduction to Australian Aboriginals and Māori in Europe
Throughout history, the early European settlement in Australia and New Zealand led to a fascinating exchange between indigenous peoples and their European colonizers. A select few Aboriginals and Māori were transported to Europe, serving as cultural ambassadors and curiosities of a bygone era. This article delves into the historical instances of Aboriginals and Māori embarking on such journeys, the reasons behind these movements, and the impact of these encounters on both indigenous and European societies.
Aboriginals to Europe: Bennelong and Other Notable Cases
One of the most notable instances of Aboriginals traveling to Europe was the journey of Bennelong, an Australian Aborigine, with Governor Phillip to England in 1792. Bennelong was adopted by Governor Phillip and became familiar with English customs and language. During his time in England, he was treated well and attended events such as the Tower of London and theatric performances. After a year, Bennelong returned to Australia due to homesickness. He later returned to England but eventually decided to settle back with his tribe in Sydney Cove.
Why were Aboriginals Brought to Europe?
These journeys were often motivated by a combination of curiosity, cultural exchange, and social novelty. Many descendants of the early colonial settlers were interested in meeting these 'exotic' individuals, viewing them as unique representatives of their cultural identities. Anthropologists and collectors also contributed to the reasons behind such journeys, aiming to study and document these rare encounters.
Legacy and Impact of Bennelong’s Journey
The legacy of Bennelong's journey continues to influence contemporary discussions about cultural identity and land rights. Bennelong's point at Sydney Opera House is a prominent reminder of his significance. However, his journey is also seen by some as a reminder of the complex and often fraught relationship between Aboriginals and European settlers.
Māori to Europe: Moehanga and the First Recorded Visitor
While Aboriginals from Australia had historical interactions, it was not until the 19th century that Māori from New Zealand began to travel to Europe. Moehanga, a Māori chief of the Ngāpuhi tribe, became the first recorded Māori visitor to England when he arrived on the whaler Ferret in 1806. Moehanga is celebrated in New Zealand as a cultural ambassador, with April 27th commemorated as the day he 'discovered' Britain.
Historical Context and Impact
The early voyages of Māori to Europe were part of a broader pattern of movement across the Pacific and Indian Ocean by indigenous peoples serving as crew members on whaling and sealing ships. This interaction often led to significant cultural exchange and sometimes further abandonment, as crew members were paid off and left in unfamiliar lands. Moehanga's journey is considered significant, as he represented a small but meaningful step in the interaction between Māori and European cultures.
Other Indigenous Travels and Their Significance
Other examples include the first Australian cricket team traveling to England in the mid-1800s, which included Aboriginal players from Victoria. Similarly, during World War I, an Australian Aboriginal soldier, who had previously been recognized in Australia by a German anthropologist, was captured and identified by the same man in Europe. These instances highlight the broader themes of cultural exchange and assimilation.
Conclusion: The Evolution of Indigenous Representation in Europe
Despite the curiosity and cultural exchange that characterized these early encounters, it is crucial to recognize the often-tragic and exploitative nature of these journeys. The historical representations of Aboriginals and Māori in Europe can be complex and imbued with colonial attitudes. However, these encounters also paved the way for a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and their interactions on a global scale.