The Native Polity of Ponape

Riesenberg, Saul H. (1968). The Native Polity of Ponape. 10. Washington, DC: Smithsonian Institution Press. ISBN 978-0-598-44243-7.

Abstract: “The Native Polity of Ponape” is a detailed anthropological study that explores the social and political structures of Ponape (Pohnpei), focusing on aspects such as clans, tribes, and the hierarchical titles and roles within the society. The document outlines the discovery and history of the native polity, delving into the structure of tribes and clans, the grades of chiefs, and the functions of section chiefs. It also discusses the promotion, succession, and the irregularities in political advancement.

The study examines the political subdivisions, highlighting the significance of titles and food offerings which are tied to land ownership and social status. The text also touches on cultural practices such as the giving of first fruits and competitive feasts, while pointing out variations in practice from the idealized patterns. Additionally, it describes the dynamics of political advancement and alliances through personal relationships and ambitions.

Physical and Historical Context: The text begins with an overview of the physical setting of Ponape, as well as its discovery and early history. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of its indigenous governance.

Social Organization: The document breaks down the population into tribes and further describes the clan and tribal arrangements. It provides insights into the clans, classes, and the graded hierarchy of chiefs.

Titles and Governance: The text provides a detailed account of the title series within the political system of Ponape, including the roles and functions of various titles and chiefs, as well as the subdivisions within tribes, such as sections and sub-tribes.

Cultural Practices and Ceremonies: The narrative discusses various practices and ceremonies, including competitive feasts and the kava ritual, highlighting their social significance and variance in practice.

Political Dynamics and Leadership: It looks at the promotion, succession, and irregularities in political advancement, showcasing how power dynamics and leadership transitions occur within the society.

Economic and Social Interactions: The relationships among the chiefs, the system of first fruits offerings, and the economic exchanges within the tribes are discussed, indicating the economic underpinnings of social hierarchies.

Extra details:

MAG: 25914132
OpenAlex: W25914132
CorpusID: 126989885