Ref ID:	29413
Ref Type:	Journal Article
Authors:	Callaghan, Richard Fitzpatrick, Scott M.
Title:	Examining prehistoric migration patterns in the Palauan Archipelago: a computer simulated analysis of drift voyaging
Date:	2008
Source:	Asian Perspectives (2008)
Notes:	From special issue of <i>Asian Perspectives</i> 47(1): Maritime Migration and Colonization in Indo-Pacific Prehistory
Abstract:	A number of recent genetic, linguistic, and archaeological studies have attempted to ascertain the origin of settlers to the Palauan archipelago, but it remains a complex and debated issue. To provide additional insight into colonization strategies and settlement patterns, we conducted computer simulations of drift voyages to the Palauan archipelago based on historically recorded winds and currents. Drift voyages were considered here as drifting before the wind when lost, a strategy documented for Pacific Islanders. The simulations suggest that peoples drifting before the wind from the southern Philippines would have had the most success in landfall. This finding supports the current hypothesis of human colonization to the islands of Palau.
Date Created:	10/28/2008
Volume:	47
Number:	1
Page Start:	28
Page End:	44