James Carroll, 1887-96 : a wholesome blend : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in History at Massey University

Abstract

No doubt, as the years go on end the historian writes the history of New Zealand, he will bring into prominence figures of that description, and particularly notable amongst them will be the late honourable gentleman whose loss we are referring to to-day ....1 1. PD, 212 (1927), p. 14. This statement, made by the Right Honourable Mr Coates speaking in the House after James Carroll's, death has not proved to be an accurate prophesy. Carroll has been neglected by historians or spoken about in vague generalizations. This study is far from an attempt to fill the entire gap, rather, it takes a small part of Carroll's early political career and examines his attitudes to Maori and European society in that period. In research for this topic one point immediately arose. It appeared that Carroll managed to be both a European with Europeans and a Maori with Maoris and was easily accepted by both groups. From this basic framework grew the picture of James Carroll, the Europeanized Maori, who because of his dual heritage and his ability to identify with both races, was a "wholesome blond". But this extended further. As well as being a "wholesome blend" in his own person, this was the basis of the ideal that he desired for all New Zealanders, as seen in his policies of equality and assimilation.