The Populating of Polynesia in Ancient Times: Was Thor Heyerdahl Right or Wrong about South American Migration into the Pacific?
This talk revisits Thor Heyerdahl's Kon-Tiki theory, exploring new evidence on Polynesian ancestry and the remarkable navigational feats of ancient Pacific voyagers.
Thor Heyerdahl's bold theory of South American migration into the Pacific, famously tested by his 1947 Kon-Tiki expedition, challenged conventional thinking about the origins of Polynesian settlers. In this talk, we will explore the genetic, linguistic, and archaeological evidence that has emerged since Heyerdahl’s time, painting a more nuanced picture of Polynesian ancestry. Did South American voyagers play a role in populating the Pacific, or were the Austronesian navigators the sole architects of this incredible human achievement? This illustrated lecture examines how ancient voyager overcame vast distances and how their journeys continue to intrigue scientists and adventurers alike.