History of Asia

What happened to the people who were around at signing of Treaty Waitangi?

Maori

* Around 500 Māori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi.

* Many Māori felt cheated by the British, as the treaty was not translated accurately into Māori and they did not understand the full implications of what they were signing.

* Māori fought a number of wars against the British in an attempt to protect their land and way of life.

* The Māori population declined significantly due to disease, warfare, and the loss of land.

* Māori culture and traditions were suppressed by the British, and many Māori were forced to live on reserves.

British

* The British established a colony in New Zealand after the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.

* The British brought with them their own laws, customs, and way of life.

* The British settlers took possession of large amounts of Māori land, often through questionable means.

* The British government failed to honour the promises made in the Treaty of Waitangi, which led to conflict with Māori.

Pākehā (non-Māori New Zealanders)

* Pākehā were settlers who came to New Zealand from various countries, including Britain, Ireland, and Australia.

* Pākehā benefited from the British colonisation of New Zealand, as they were able to acquire land and start businesses.

* Pākehā also played a role in the oppression of Māori, as they often held positions of power and influence in the colony.

The signing of the Treaty of Waitangi had a profound impact on the lives of Māori, British, and Pākehā in New Zealand. The legacy of the treaty continues to shape New Zealand society today, as Māori seek to redress the injustices of the past and assert their rights as tangata whenua (people of the land).