Final answer:
The European colonization of New Zealand began in 1840, following James Cook's mapping of the coastline in 1769. It marked a significant change for the Maori people and led to New Zealand's emergence as a nation that values their cultural heritage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The European colonization of New Zealand began in 1840 when Britain established its colony. Although British naval officer James Cook mapped the coastline in 1769, it wasn't until 1840 that formal colonization commenced. New Zealand was initially part of New South Wales and later became a separate colony.
This period marked the beginning of significant change for the indigenous Maori population, who faced land dispossession and conflict as a result of the colonial settlement. Despite these challenges, New Zealand emerged as a nation that has since worked towards acknowledging Maori rights and cultural importance.
In 1893, New Zealand became the first country to grant women the right to vote. As a subsequent member of the British Empire, the country became a commonwealth in 1947 and has functioned independently since then.