friendly islands crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "friendly islands crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TONGA: A Polynesian kingdom known historically as 'The Friendly Islands' due to the warm reception given to Captain James Cook in 1773.
More About "friendly islands crossword clue"
The term "Friendly Islands" is a historical designation primarily referring to the Kingdom of Tonga, an archipelago of 170 islands in the South Pacific. This name was famously bestowed upon them by British explorer Captain James Cook during his visits in the 1770s. He noted the exceptional hospitality and generosity of the Tongan people, who welcomed him with feasts and gifts, leading him to coin the affectionate moniker.
Tonga is the only remaining monarchy in the Pacific and boasts a rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and stunning natural beauty, from coral reefs to active volcanoes. Its inclusion in crosswords often taps into general knowledge about world geography, history, and famous explorer voyages, making "TONGA" a widely recognized answer for this specific clue due to its unique historical association.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Geographically and Historically: Many crossword clues for place names, especially islands, have historical nicknames or unique characteristics tied to explorers or events. Always consider these connections.
- Pay Attention to Length: The number of letters in the answer is your most powerful constraint. For clues like "friendly islands", knowing it's a 5-letter word immediately narrows down possibilities from a vast ocean of island names.
- Cross-Reference with Other Clues: If you're stuck on a particular clue, try solving intersecting words first. Filling in a few letters from other clues can often provide the necessary hint to complete the challenging one.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Friendly Islands called 'Friendly'?
The name 'Friendly Islands' was given by Captain James Cook in 1773 after he received a very warm and hospitable welcome from the locals during his visit to Tonga, which forms the core of these islands.
What other clues might lead to TONGA?
Besides 'Friendly Islands', clues for TONGA often relate to its status as a Polynesian kingdom, its capital Nuku'alofa, its traditional sport of rugby, or its volcanic island geography.
Is 'Friendly Islands' only Tonga, or does it include other islands?
While Tonga is the primary and most recognized group within 'The Friendly Islands', the term broadly refers to the Tongan archipelago. Historically, Cook's interactions were primarily with the Tongan islanders, cementing their association with the name.