Retaining Rangatiratanga: the Kingitanga, 1858 Flashcards
What response did Maori have to the changes and land loss they were experiencing in the mid-19th century?
Maori began to hold runanga (councils) to discuss the changes and loss of rangatiratanga, and they met in various regions to demand inclusion in decision-making.
What was the mood for action that began to build in the central North Island, and what idea found favour in response to their marginalization?
The mood for action was based around the Waikato/Tainui region. The idea that found favour was the establishment of a separate Maori parliament or kingship.
Who was chosen as the first Maori King in 1858, and why did Wiremu Tamihana support the idea of a kingship?
Potatau Te Wherowhero of Waikato’s Ngati Mahuta was chosen as the first Maori King. Wiremu Tamihana supported this idea after experiencing mistreatment at the Native Office in Auckland and realizing that Maori needed to organize themselves.
What was the significance of the Kohimarama Covenant, as mentioned in the text?
The Kohimarama Covenant confirmed the commitment of iwi from all over the country to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, as they understood them. It was a pledge to do “nothing inconsistent with their declared recognition of the Queen’s sovereignty.”
How did the chiefs’ understanding of sovereignty and rangatiratanga differ from the British interpretation of the Treaty of Waitangi?
The chiefs understood the Treaty as a shared authority and believed that the actions of the Kingitanga (Maori King Movement) were acceptable within this framework, despite not fully aligning with the British interpretation of unconditional surrender of sovereignty to the British Crown.
What role did the Kingitanga play in consolidating a sense of Maoriness in the face of settler government and colonization, as per historian Claudia Orange?
The Kingitanga aimed to consolidate a sense of Maoriness in response to settler government and colonization, with the primary goal of resisting the alienation of Maori land.
Who was Matutaera, and why was he mentioned in the text?
Matutaera, also known as Tawhiao, succeeded Potatau Te Wherowhero as the Maori King. His mention highlights the transition of leadership within the Kingitanga.
What social functions are mentioned as part of the Kingitanga’s role in maintaining unity among various hapu?
The Kingitanga maintains unity through annual poukai meetings on various marae and the annual Koroneihana (coronation) hui at Turangawaewae, which includes celebrations and sporting events.
In what way did King Tüheitia break with tradition in 2017, and how was his decision received?
In 2017, King Tüheitia backed the Maori Party, breaking with the tradition of not voicing political opinions. His decision was met with controversy, with some critics suggesting it diminished the mana and status of the Kingitanga.
What was the outcome of the conference of chiefs held at Mission Bay near Auckland in 1860?
The chiefs expressed their commitment to their understanding of the Treaty and shared authority, and the event became an annual gathering. It confirmed the commitment of iwi to the principles of the Treaty, even those who had not previously signed, such as Te Arawa.
