Upon a Stone Altar: a History of the Island of Pohnpei to 1890
Alkire, William H.; Hanlon, David (September 1990). "Upon a Stone Altar: a History of the Island of Pohnpei to 1890". Man. 25 (3): 538. doi:10.2307/2803730. ISSN 0025-1496.
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Abstract: The article “Upon a Stone Altar: A History of the Island of Pohnpei to 1890” by David Hanlon, as reviewed by William H. Alkire, provides a thorough historical account of the island of Pohnpei. It employs an “Islander-oriented” approach by incorporating both documentary records and oral traditions to reflect the indigenous perspectives and key cultural values of Pohnpeians[7]. The book is structured around significant historical periods, beginning with the first settlement, followed by the ‘Period of the Saudeleurs,’ characterized by political centralization, and then the ‘Period of the Nahnmwarkis,’ marked by competing chiefdoms.
The narrative progresses to discuss the island’s interactions with Europeans and Americans, with chapters covering early explorers, the establishment of a beachcombers’ community, and the influence of traders, whalers, and missionaries through the 19th century. By 1886, Pohnpei was incorporated into the Spanish colonial empire. Hanlon concludes that the Pohnpeians and their culture have “survived and persevered” despite these external contacts and colonial pressures.
Alkire’s review praises the book for concisely and clearly demonstrating that Pohnpeians were active participants in their history, not merely passive victims. However, he criticizes Hanlon’s handling of oral traditions, suggesting that these should be approached with greater caution, as they may reflect present social and political structures as much as historical facts.
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MAG: 2800487654 OpenAlex: W2800487654
