Physical Anthropology in Micronesia: A Closing Statement
Underwood, J.H. (1990). "Physical Anthropology in Micronesia: A Closing Statement" (PDF). Micronesica. Suppl. 2: 431–434. ISSN 0026-279X.
- Has attachment: File:FSWYEQ92.pdf
Abstract: The article "Physical Anthropology in Micronesia: A Closing Statement" investigates various aspects of the settlement and demographic development of Micronesians. It emphasizes understanding the ancestral origins of Micronesians and the colonization process of the Pacific islands, focusing on the demographic challenges and successes of these early settlers.
Key points discussed include the demographic dynamics and reproductive patterns that supported population growth. High birth rates were likely crucial, especially on smaller islands where demographic instability was common. Moreover, a "Micronesian pattern" of reproductive behavior is suggested, where women bore as many children later in life as at earlier ages. Infanticide is mentioned as a mechanism allowing for adaptability to changing conditions.
Ecological and demographic factors also indicate relatively low mortality among settlers until the Contact period introduced diseases that severely impacted populations. The article highlights complications in reconstructing population histories due to missing remains, particularly of individuals who didn't return from fishing voyages, which would affect fertility and population variation across islands.
Archaeological evidence points to shifts in resource utilization, such as a reduced reliance on pelagic resources, which impacted demographic trends, including increased exposure to intestinal parasites and related health issues . The conclusion calls for integrating ecological and demographic aspects into the study of Micronesian anthropology to better understand selective pressures faced by populations and how these influenced microevolutionary processes.
