Some of the first Europeans to venture into the southern Pacific Ocean were the Dutch during the 17th and early 18th centuries. The linguistic legacy of these expeditions can be found in a small number of Dutch words adopted into Polynesian languages as well as toponyms bestowed by them. The current article was inspired by Douglas (2014). In that article she investigates the expeditions of Le Maire and Tasman into the South Pacific. In response to an assessment made by her regarding their naming practices, Dr. Tent catalogued and quantitatively analysed the toponyms they bestowed and recorded. Included in the examination are the 13 toponyms conferred by Roggeveen. His analysis reveals that Douglas’ assessment is largely correct, however, some differences are noted.
More information on, and publications from Linguist Dr. Jan Tent
