How did the Austronesian languages spread?

The long-established theory – based on archaeological, linguistic and genetic evidence – is that the development of rice farming in mainland China spread to Taiwan, where the languages later known as Austronesian developed.

Where did Austronesian languages come from?

Some scholars propose that the ancestral Proto-Austronesian language originated in Taiwan (Formosa), while other linguists believe that it originated in the islands of Indonesia. The Austronesian language family is usually divided into two branches: Malayo-Polynesian and Formosan.

What makes a language Austronesian?

Austronesian languages, formerly Malayo-Polynesian languages, family of languages spoken in most of the Indonesian archipelago; all of the Philippines, Madagascar, and the island groups of the Central and South Pacific (except for Australia and much of New Guinea); much of Malaysia; and scattered areas of Vietnam.

How did Austronesians get to Madagascar?

The Austronesian diaspora is believed to have been initiated by the migration of the Lapita peoples from Taiwan around 5,500 years ago, who settled throughout Southeast Asia, the Pacific and Madagascar in the Indian Ocean just off the coast of East Africa.

Did the Austronesians colonize Madagascar?

Now, new studies—recent or soon-to-be-published—trace a wave of Austronesian colonization between 700 C.E. and 1200 C.E. The telltale evidence is, in effect, breadcrumbs: crops distinctive to Austronesia, sprinkled across Madagascar and neighboring islands.

When did Austronesians reach Madagascar?

The Austronesians were well known to be long distance ocean travellers, having spread from Asia to the Pacific islands and New Zealand up to 10,000 years ago. Some researchers believe the Austronesians arrived on Madagascar around 300AD, but the new findings suggest they got there around 700-900AD.

How did Madagascar become French speaking?

The status of French as an official language of Madagascar dates back to the country’s establishment as a French protectorate (in 1883) and then as a French colony (in 1896). Madagascar continued under French rule for over 60 years, only gaining full independence again in 1960.

Why did the French want Madagascar?

In 1883, France invaded Madagascar and by 1896 had established rule over the island, which became a French colony. France used Madagascar as a source for timber and exotic spices, like vanilla. He ruled Madagascar as a dictator until he was overthrown in 1991 amid an economic collapse.

How did the French affect Madagascar?

Madagascar was colonized by the French in December of 1894. The French invaded Antananarivo, 6,000 men died to disease and 20 men in the battle. The French ruled a protectorate imperialism and it was declared a French colony. Malagasy rulers foreign influence was cut off by the French.