Michael Rockefeller, born in 1938, was the grandson of the influential mega-rich oil magnate John D. Rockefeller, known for his immense wealth and significant impact on American business.

Michael developed a passion for indigenous art, seeking to share the rich cultural expressions of various communities with the Western world.

His journey led him to Dutch New Guinea, specifically to the Asmat people, an indigenous group known for their vibrant artistic traditions and complex spiritual beliefs.

The Asmat viewed white individuals as supernatural beings, which further fueled Rockefeller’s interest in understanding their culture and art.

After an initial trip to the region, Rockefeller returned to the Asmat territory in 1961 alongside anthropologist René Wassing, aiming to deepen his exploration of their way of life.

Tragically, during their voyage, their boat capsized, forcing Rockefeller to swim approximately 12 miles (22 km) to shore.

In stark contrast, Wassing chose to cling to the overturned vessel. After this fateful day, Rockefeller vanished without a trace, igniting speculation about his fate.

Various theories emerged, ranging from drowning or being attacked by a shark to the more chilling possibility of cannibalism at the hands of the Asmat people, who had a historical reputation for such practices, particularly in the context of revenge killings.

The theory of cannibalism is often linked to the broader narrative of colonial violence and mistreatment of the Asmat by Dutch authorities, suggesting that Rockefeller’s presence may have inadvertently triggered a violent response rooted in the community’s grievances.

The enduring mystery surrounding his disappearance has inspired numerous books and documentaries that examine the events leading up to his vanishing and the cultural context of the Asmat people.

This tragic story remains a poignant reminder of the complexities of cross-cultural encounters, colonial history, and the often perilous quests for understanding and connection. PLEASE SHARE OUR STORIES

RETRIBUTION Michael Walsh, a regular television, radio and newspaper personality. Liverpool-based city-vigilante thriller more gripping than Death Wish by award-winning novelist. ‘Retribution is the greatest movie never made’ ~ William Housman. ‘An excellent thriller written in the tense style of a John Le Carre spymaster novel’ ~ Brian Smyth. LINK TO BOOK  https://tinyurl.com/435km8s8