New research from The Australian National University (ANU) has uncovered evidence that one of the first cities in the Pacific was established much earlier than previously thought. Using aerial laser scanning to map archaeological sites on the island of Tongatapu in Tonga, lead author Phillip Parton and his team found that earth structures were being constructed around AD 300, 700 years earlier than believed. This new timeline suggests that urbanisation in the Pacific was an indigenous innovation that predated Western influence, leading to significant social and economic changes as populations grew and adapted.
The study revealed that as settlements in Tongatapu expanded, new methods of supporting the growing population were developed. This low density urbanisation, characterized by dispersed structures and open spaces, paved the way for increased interaction among people and a shift in economic activities. Despite the challenges of collecting data on urbanisation in the Pacific in the past, advancements in technology have allowed researchers to combine high-tech mapping and archaeological fieldwork to gain a better understanding of early Pacific societies. This new information contributes to a deeper appreciation of the unique urban developments in the region, challenging traditional notions of what constitutes a city.
The findings from Tongatapu shed light on the influence of Pacific societies on urban science, showcasing a different model of urbanisation compared to the compact European cities usually associated with early settlements. Mr. Parton noted that the spread of Tongatapu’s influence across the southwest Pacific Ocean between the 13th and 19th centuries highlights the significance of these early cities in shaping the region’s history. However, the collapse of low-density urbanisation in Tonga was attributed to the arrival of Europeans and the introduction of diseases, rather than inherent flaws in the system. This research marks just the beginning of exploring early Pacific settlements, with the potential for further discoveries and insights into the complexities of ancient urban societies.
The study, published in the Journal of Archaeological Method and Theory, underscores the importance of reevaluating established timelines and understanding the dynamics of urban development in the Pacific. By utilizing innovative technologies and interdisciplinary approaches, researchers can uncover hidden histories and challenge conventional narratives about early cities in the region. The research team’s efforts to unravel the mysteries of Tongatapu’s ancient urban landscape have opened new avenues for exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific and its contributions to the broader field of archaeology. As scholars continue to investigate the legacy of early Pacific settlements, there is a growing appreciation for the complex and dynamic nature of urbanisation in this diverse and historically significant region.