A number of theories have been put forward to explain the motivation behind the colonization of the Pacific. It has been suggested that the Oceanic people had a natural curiosity and passion for exploration and discovery. Another idea is that they were searching for new or prized resources, raw materials, and trade.
In a more hostile context, the journeys have been seen as a result of overpopulation or as voyages of exile as a result of war. They may also have been a consequence of rivalry between senior and junior siblings or branches of a descent group.
There are, however, solid arguments against the interpretation of migration being caused by overpopulation. The people who left took large items like canoes, animals, and plants. These expensive voyages could only have been supported by surplus production.
It is more likely that the Oceanic people simply tried to place founding populations on all islands. In this, with only a few rare exceptions, they achieved their aim.
