Part 11/12:
The Downfall and Legacy
Reports from explorers depicted Easter Island as a shadow of its former self. By 1722, what civilized remnants remained were largely in ruin; statues lay toppled, farmland was neglected, and the once-thriving population faced dire hardship. The infamous slave raids in the 19th century further decimated the island's inhabitants, reducing the population from around 2,500 to a mere 111 individuals.
In modern times, the Easter Island population has rebounded to approximately 7,700, half of whom are descendants of the original Rapa Nui culture. Despite modern influences, these residents continue to navigate the balance between preserving their rich history and adapting to contemporary life.