Illuminating Sea‐Level Fall around AD 1220–1510 (730‐440 cal yr BP) in the Pacific Islands: Implications for Environmental Change and Cultural Transformation

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper focuses on the climatic transition between the Little Climatic Optimum (approximately AD 750–1300 or 1200‐650 cal yr BP) and the Little Ice Age (approximately AD 1300–1800 or 650‐150 cal yr BP) in the Pacific Islands. This transition was marked by rapid temperature and sea‐level fall, and perhaps by sharply‐increased precipitation associated with an increase in El Nino frequency.Examples from throughout the Pacific Islands demonstrate the possible and/or likely effects of sea‐level fall at this time on inland horticulture through water‐table fall; on coral reefs and lagoons through the emergence of reef surfaces and the consequent reduction of nearshore water circulation; on the emergence of reef islets and the conversion of tidal inlets to brackish lakes. The effects of such changes on human lifestyles are explored.