New Zealand was the last country in the world to be discovered and settled by humankind. It was also the first to introduce a full democracy. Between those events, and in the century that followed the franchise, the movements and the conflicts of human history have been played out more intensively and more rapidly in New Zealand than anywhere else on Earth. This title tells that story in all its colour and drama. The narrative that emerges is an inclusive one about men and women, Maori and Pakeha. It shows that British motives in colonizing New Zealand were essentially humane; and that Maori, far from being passive victims of a "fatal impact", coped heroically with colonization and survived by selectively accepting and adapting what Western technology and culture had to offer. The latter part of the book reveals how an insulated and dependent British colony transformed itself into an independent nation, open to and competing with technological and cultural influences sweeping the globe.
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Reviews
– Customer review on 06/04/2006
What a tragedy when Michael King passed away - a man of great knowledge & insight who could provide a bridge between cultures in such a time as this...
The man makes NZ history fascinating - from the prehistory of nation, through the coming of muskets and missionaries, to the signing of a treaty to the birth of a nation, Michael King guides us in his own inimitable fashion. A great book from a great Kiwi...
This is, quite simply, a "Must Have" for all New Zealand homes. This book is just so accessible. Well written and not long or drawn out, it captures the key elements of New Zealand history. It is no surprise that this has been a best seller. I recommend 100%.
This book delivers a great insight into the history of New Zealand. Studying high school history this book was an ideal companion. The history is put clearly and with great attention to detail, but in a way that it holds you attention and interest easily throughout the entire book. A very good purchase for all New Zealanders to own.
This is by far the best general history of New Zealand to be published in a generation.
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Though extraordinarily well-informed in terms of modern research details, King's account is also notable for its perspectives on time and on the themes that have defined us.
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His overall message is expressed beautifully in his closing sentences: "And most New Zealanders, whatever their cultural backgrounds, are good-hearted, practical, commonsensical and tolerant. Those qualities are part of the national cultural capital that has in the past saved the country from the worst excesses of chauvinism and racism seen in other parts of the world. They are as sound a basis as any for optimism about the country's future." It's uplifting stuff.
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