In a recent speech in Pittsburgh, Joe Biden stirred both curiosity and criticism in Papua New Guinea by suggesting that his uncle may have fallen victim to cannibals during World War II.
The Controversy Unraveled
Biden recounted the wartime experiences of his uncle, 2nd Lt Ambrose J Finnegan Jr, who flew reconnaissance flights over New Guinea. He claimed that his uncle’s plane was shot down, and his body was never found due to the prevalence of cannibals in the region.
Unsubstantiated Claims
However, official war records contradict Biden’s narrative, stating that Finnegan died when his plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean due to engine failure. There’s no mention of cannibalism or the plane being shot down.
Papua New Guinean Perspectives
Analysts in Papua New Guinea have criticized Biden’s comments as ill-informed and offensive, particularly considering the nation’s pride and history. Michael Kabuni, a political science lecturer, emphasized that while cannibalism existed in specific cultural contexts, implying that Papua New Guineans would consume fallen soldiers is unacceptable and disrespectful.
Cultural Context of Cannibalism
Kabuni explained that historical cannibalism in Papua New Guinea was often ritualistic and not a response to food scarcity. Communities might consume deceased relatives out of respect or to prevent decomposition. However, the idea of eating random individuals, especially as implied by Biden’s remarks, is inaccurate and offensive.
Reaction from Papua New Guinean Leaders
Leaders in Papua New Guinea expressed mixed reactions to Biden’s comments. Allan Bird, governor of East Sepik, found the remarks humorous, suggesting they might stem from Biden’s childhood influences. However, Maholopa Laveil, an economics lecturer, criticized the claims as unhelpful and damaging to the nation’s image.
Questioning the Timing
Critics highlighted the timing of Biden’s remarks, coming after he canceled a planned trip to Papua New Guinea and amid efforts to strengthen US-Papua New Guinea relations. The claims, deemed unsubstantiated, risk tarnishing the progress made in bilateral cooperation.
Clarifying the Historical Record
According to the Pentagon’s Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Biden’s uncle perished in a plane crash off the coast of New Guinea in 1944. The crash resulted from engine failure, with no evidence to support claims of cannibalism.
Conclusion
Biden’s anecdote about his uncle’s fate during World War II has ignited debate and scrutiny in Papua New Guinea. While historical context sheds light on past cultural practices, Biden’s remarks are viewed as misinformed and potentially damaging to diplomatic relations. Clarifying the historical record is essential to prevent further misunderstanding and uphold respectful discourse.