Changing social organization on Romónum, Truk, 1947-1965

Goodenough, Ward Hunt

book chapter

Changing social organization on Romónum, Truk, 1947-1965

social organization and the applications of anthropology : essays in honor of lauriston sharp • Ithaca, N.Y. • Published In 1974 • Pages: 62-93

By: Goodenough, Ward Hunt.

Abstract
In this study, Goodenough examines changes in the Chuuk system of property, settlement pattern and kinship terminology, on the island of Romonum. Property was held by lineage groups and managed by a lineage elder (SOWUPPWUN) who allocated plots to junior kin, under condition that the land be cultivated, and in exchange for 'first fruits' of the harvest. The relationship between senior and junior lineages--between land grantor and grantee--was reflected in the kinship terminology wherein all senior and junior lineage members referred to each other as 'father' and 'children,' respectively. Subsequent German, Japanese and American administrations recognized lineage corporate property as personal property of the SOWUPPWUN. Furthermore, the Americans recognized junior kin to have full title to what were residual land holdings. The result was the eventual weakening of the authoriy of the senior lineage and the increased importance and autonomy of sublinegaes with shallower generational depth. The gift of first fruit has become mere courtesy and in most places abandoned. Households have become more dispersed and are no longer clustered by lineage.

HRAF PubDate

1999

Region

Oceania