On the 30th of March, 1820—some months after this strange…
““On the 30th of March, 1820—some months after this strange religious revolution—the first party of Christian missionaries arrived at the islands from Massachusetts. They were well received. They found a people without a religion, and their work was easy. Other missionary parties followed from time to time, and found the field alike profitable to the cause in which they labored and to themselves individually. They acquired substantial possessions in their new home, controlled the government for the fifty or more years following, and their children are to-day among the most prosperous residents of the group. This is not said with a view to undervalue the services of the early missionaries to Hawaii, but to show that all missionary fields have not been financially unfruitful to zealous and provident workers.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Missionaries often gained wealth and influence, showing that religious ventures can be financially lucrative for participants.
In simple terms: Missionary work sometimes brought profit and power.
Key Takeaway
Recognize both spiritual and material motives.
Themes
history
colonialism
economics
religion
power
Mood
reflective
critical
historical
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- colonial settlement
- religious outreach
- economic development
- political control
Key Concepts
missionary activity
resource acquisition
social hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- What ethical tensions arise when faith meets profit?
- How did missionary wealth affect local cultures?
A Different Perspective
Focus on profit can undermine altruistic goals.