S1-E32: Tonga: Fishers of Men

Podcast 06 August 2025

In episode 32 of the journey aboard the HMS Resolution, Georg Forster and Captain Cook explore the island of Tongatapu in the Friendly Islands. While investigating steep coral cliffs and speculating on the island’s geological origins, Georg reflects on how quickly such a young island could support rich vegetation and dense population.

The crew trades with islanders for ornaments, tools, and finely crafted textiles, marveling at a skirt adorned with feathers and coral. A solemn ceremony at a burial ground, led by a respected elder believed to be a priest, reveals religious practices centered on an invisible deity—absent of idol worship.

A sailor strikes a fleeing islander with a boat hook, pulling him aboard—only for the wounded man to leap back into the sea and escape, aided by canoes from shore. – Click on the image to listen to this episode on YouTube.

Later, Cook and Forster encounter Ko-Haghi-Tu-Fallango, or Latu-Nipuru, the island’s high chief. Although his demeanor seems indifferent, he commands clear reverence among his people. Observations of agriculture, canoe design, music, and social customs—such as open relationships among the unmarried—offer insight into Tongatapu’s advanced yet contrasting society.

Despite two thefts that lead to gunfire and injury, the islanders remain peaceful and willing to trade. Georg concludes that the spirit of hospitality and commerce reported by early explorers like Schouten and Tasman still defines these islands. The name “Friendly Islands” remains well deserved.