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Explorers of the Ocean: How did indigenous peoples become the first humans to cross the ocean?
Aboriginal Australians, as the indigenous people of Australia, have a long history of more than 60,000 years. Their ancestors were among the first humans to cross the ocean. The environmental conditions at the time and human survival wisdom enabled these ancestors to successfully overcome numerous difficulties and reach the 769,000 square kilometers of the Australian continent, where they took root and developed diverse cultures and languages.
“The history of human existence is deeply embedded in this land, and our culture is ancient and profound.”
Origin and Migration
The human migration process is full of hardships and adventures. The latest genetic research shows that the ancestors of Australian Aborigines left Africa 75,000 years ago, passed through the waters of Southeast Asia, and eventually arrived in Australia. Their migrations not only demonstrate humanity’s tenacious ability to survive, but also prove that they were thousands of years ahead of many modern people in their exploration of the oceans.
“The Aboriginal culture of Australia is probably one of the oldest in the world, because they were virtually isolated from the outside world for such a long time.”
As sea levels rise, the land where the Aboriginal people live and the surrounding islands and Tasmania are increasingly submerged by sea water. Despite this, inland tribes maintained a network of contacts, with Aboriginal peoples of the Torres Strait Islands and the Mekasa people of modern Indonesia.
Continuation of culture
The continuation of Aboriginal culture is maintained and passed down through many means, including dance, stories, songs and art, which are an important part of their daily life and belief systems. The concept of so-called "dreams," which encompass the understanding of creation and existence, is considered the essence of these cultures.
"The stories of dreams are like a bridge, connecting our ancestors with the future."
Language Diversity
There are more than 250 Aboriginal languages, with each language having its own distinctive characteristics depending on the geographical location. However, many languages are facing the risk of extinction, forcing communities to launch recovery movements to protect and flourish these precious linguistic heritages.
"Language is the heart of culture. To lose a language is to lose one's identity."
Challenges and Changes
Despite their unique and rich cultural background, Aboriginal peoples face challenges in many areas, including health and economics. Today, many Aboriginal people still live in cities and integrate with Australia's mainstream culture.
According to the 2021 Census data, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make up 3.8% of Australia's total population. This represents the survival and struggle of a culture, and establishes their identity and history on this land.
Modern Exploration
Today, many modern indigenous peoples are beginning to rediscover their own identities, and cultural exchange and integration are constantly occurring. Advances in scientific research and efforts at cultural revitalization continue to drive them to reconnect with their ancestors and explore how their modern lives can develop on this basis.
"As we look back at the past, we are also exploring the possibilities of the future."
How will indigenous people face the rapidly changing modern society in the future? How will their culture shape the lives and beliefs of the next generation?
