The transformation of the traditional Tongan polity : a genealogical consideration of Tonga's past

Abstract

This study of traditional Tongan political history focuses on how Tongan genealogies and succession lists structure, and are structured by, cultural ideals and political processes. Their fluid nature as legitimizing charters of rank, authority and power is embraced in order to appreciate differing, and often contradictory, versions of Tongan history. The place of genealogies and succession lists in a Tongan construction of the past is explored and is incorporated in a history of not only individuals and events, but also of transformations of cultural processes, especially as they relate to Tongan notions of hereditary rank and chieftainship. The enduring and sacred nature of these notions is juxtaposed against the dynamics of status rivalry and the exercise of power. The record of both the enduring and dynamic forces, it is argued, is embedded in the genealogical traditions of Tonga. Consequently, the traditions are used as a focus point of the study: methodologically, in that they form a significant part of the source material, and stylistically, by providing a central structural theme to the thesis. The Prologue provides a geographical introduction to the Tongan archipelago, as well as Tonga’s relationship to the larger region of western Polynesia. Temporally, the study begins with the beginning of the Tongan universe and the divine chieftainship (Tu‘i Tonga) as expressed in the Tongan creation myth cycle (Chapter Two). Chapter Three chronicles the reigns of the early kau Tu ‘i Tonga and considers the successful challenge of their absolute authority by a ‘younger’ collateral lineage. This resulted in the creation of a bipartisan chieftainship of a sacred ruler (Tu‘i Tonga) and a secular ruler (Tu ‘i Ha‘atakalaua). The existence of early Tongan imperialism in western Polynesia is also investigated. Chapter Four explores the possibility of an extended period of exile for the Tu‘i Tonga in Samoa and the re-establishment of the title within Tonga. In addition, the successful challenge of the ruling secular title (Tu‘i Ha‘atakalaua) by a ‘younger’ collateral lineage, the establishment of the Tu ‘i Kanokupolu title as well as the proliferation of other chiefly titles which accompanied this challenge are considered. Internal rivalry between holders of the Tu ‘i Kanokupolu title and their ambitions to abolish the authority and status of the Tu‘i Tonga are dealt with in Chapter Five. Chapter Six focuses on the consolidation of secular rule, including the emergence of internal political struggles, after the denigration of the sacred ruler. Chapter Seven moves to a final consideration of the enduring nature of a sacred and hereditary Tongan chieftainship and its transformation rather than ultimate abolition.