Easter Island

Formerly

No one knew what became of the former inhabitants of Easter Island or why the island was abandoned. One theory was that the population outgrew the resources that were available. Easter Island uninhabited and not accessible by the general public

Presently

Easter Island has a rich cultural history, passed down for 1,800+ years. The descendants (Rapa Nui) still live there and were given charge of 40% of the island that is declared a National Park by the Chilean government.

Formerly

No one was sure why the Easter Island statues (usually called ” Easter Island Heads”) were created. One theory was that they were created as a coming of age trial and set to protect the island. There were other theories also; theories about religion, especially concerning the motif of a bird in flight.

Presently

The statues are called Moai and were built to remember family members and ancestors. Every group of Moai has a distinct look for each family group.

Formerly

Easter Island was discovered completely abandoned. The only signs of life being large heads that existed across the island.

Presently

When Easter Island was discovered, inhabited by natives, some of them were captured as slaves