My understanding was that the Hawaiian people had stolen (mistaken trade deal?) one of Cooks longboats. Cook reacted by taking the islands ruling chief hostage to demand the return of the longboat. This sparked outrage from the islanders who chased Cook and some of his crew down during their attempted escape and killed him.
I think Cook and Bligh (and probably other captains) favoured this strategy in delicate interactions with islanders.
I’m not defending the practice but often the kidnapped person would go along with it. They were well treated and it was an easy way to get everyone’s attention and bring an end to whatever disagreement.
My understanding was that the Hawaiian people had stolen (mistaken trade deal?) one of Cooks longboats. Cook reacted by taking the islands ruling chief hostage to demand the return of the longboat. This sparked outrage from the islanders who chased Cook and some of his crew down during their attempted escape and killed him.
Yeah this sounds right.
I think Cook and Bligh (and probably other captains) favoured this strategy in delicate interactions with islanders.
I’m not defending the practice but often the kidnapped person would go along with it. They were well treated and it was an easy way to get everyone’s attention and bring an end to whatever disagreement.