After Moruroa
France in the South Pacific
Nic Maclellan and Jean Chesneaux
A fascinating, comprehensive history of French colonialism
After Moruroa looks at the history of French colonialism in the Pacific—from the French Revolution to the Matignon Accords in New Caledonia and the end of nuclear testing at Moruroa and Fangataufa atolls.
What is the future for France's Pacific colonies? As France integrates further with the European Union, can it retain ties with Pacific islands on the other side of the world? How will political changes in New Caledonia and a growing independence movement in French Polynesia impact on Paris?
Nic Maclellan and Jean Chesneaux review the social, cultural, political and environmental impact of France's presence in the region. They document French policy over two centuries, drawing on sources from Europe, Australia and the Pacific.
With France's "Grand Design" for the Pacific under challenge today, this authoritative study looks at the future for the South Pacific-after Moruroa.
Nic Maclellan has worked as a journalist, researcher and community development worker in the Pacific islands. He currently works with the Pacific Concerns Resource Centre (PCRC) in Suva, Fiji. He has written widely on development, environment and disarmament issues, and is co-author, with Jean Chesneaux, of La France dans le Pacifique: De Bougainville à Moruroa (Editions la Découverte, Paris, 1992).
Jean Chesneaux is emeritus professor of Asian and Pacific History at the Sorbonne (Université de Paris VII). He has traveled extensively the Pacific region since 1970. His recent publications include: Transpacifiques (Editions la Découverte, Paris, 1987), Brave Modern World (Thames and Hudson, London, 1993) and Abiter le temps (Bayard, Paris, 1996).
The age of colonialism has not ended. As with East Timor, the Kanak people of New Caledonia and the Maohi people of French Polynesia have the right to self-determination and independence. This book outlines the history of French colonialism in the South Pacific and shows how Pacific peoples are seeking to determine their own future, in freedom and dignity.
—José Ramos Horta
This book will certainly help raise awareness of the urgency of the issues of the Liquid Continent.
—John Taroanui Doom, World Council of Churches
