Worlds Apart : A History Of The Pacific Islands 2nd Ed.

Dive into the rich tapestry of the Pacific Islands with 'Worlds Apart: A History of the Pacific Islands 2nd Ed.' by Ian Campbell. This meticulously revised edition presents a comprehensive narrative that traces the remarkable journey of these islands from their first settlement by ancient voyagers to the profound changes brought by Western contact. Spanning 392 pages, this engaging paperback not only unravels the complex history of the Pacific Islands but also illuminates their diverse cultures and unique challenges. Ideal for travelers, historians, and anyone interested in understanding this often-misunderstood region, 'Worlds Apart' goes beyond mere political events and captures the essence of island life. It addresses popular misconceptions and provides an accessible account of the Pacific's past and present. Whether you’re a casual reader or a dedicated scholar, this book serves as an essential resource that answers the pivotal question—'What happened?' Perfect for anyone seeking in-depth knowledge of the Pacific Islands, this edition is essential for libraries, classrooms, and personal collections alike. Explore the pivotal events and socio-cultural dynamics that have shaped this vibrant area, making it an indispensable choice for those looking to deepen their understanding of the Pacific’s historical landscape.

Author: Ian Campbell Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Bind: paperback

Pages: 392
Publication Date: 01-06-2015

The Pacific Islands remain for most people a region of obscurity or puzzlement. The attention of news media is attracted by atypical events such as political violence that contradict the peaceful tourist image of sun, sea and smiling faces. Journalists, travellers, business people and the general public have few paths to access specialised knowledge about the complex and changing 'neighbourhood' to New Zealand's north and Australia's northeast. Ian Campbell's History of the Pacific Islands, first published in 1989, served this purpose for many years, and its successor, Worlds Apart, has proved to be equally serviceable, bringing into focus the past and present of this diverse and endlessly misunderstood region. For the second edition this concise and readable narrative was revised to bring the story of the island world - from its first settlement by raft and canoe voyagers, through the period of western contact and acculturation - up to 2010. As with its earlier versions, this book was written not for fellow academics, but for the many people who want to know 'what happened'.