Historical Context
Nā lei developed for adornment; with little resources for ornamentation, most garlands are made of local flora and fauna like shells, teeth, flowers, and feathers. The lei has sacred uses associated with gods and many social uses associated with celebration. Nā lei are used as gifts between friends and during special occasions. Chiefs would also create a special maile lei as a symbol of peace agreements. Nā lei were created by Polynesians, and their creation spread throughout the Pacific from New Zealand to Hawai'i during the period of Austronesian expansion and Pacific ocean settlement from the 8th to 14th centuries. During this period of expansion, nā lei across the Pacific were very similar; however, during its subsequent period of isolation, Hawai'ians developed their own unique lei traditions.
Read more about this topic: Lei (garland)
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