Josh Coles' vitriol against Colonel Greer (The Weekend Sun, May 14, page 30) shows little understanding of the scenario of the 1800s.

Greer was a military leader tasked by the Governor with following up the defeat of British troops at Gate Pa, a magnificent defence by Maori. Greer did not seize land.

Civilians suffer in all wars, particularly civil wars, wherein the ‘enemy' are within.

Pakeha suffered too.

I have read a lot of New Zealand history, noting that Maori dominated New Zealand in the 1800s, economically, numerically, through their way of life, and been very smart in understanding and adapting British ways.

With Christianity they travelled two paths, one detrimental.

The Kingite endeavour was effectively rebelling against the Treaty. Yes, Maori suffered injustice in the time that followed. Yes, Maori language was ‘banned' in schools, but at the behest of Maori so their children would learn English.

I recall being in a school bus with many Maori conversing in their language. I have no recollection of any issues at my school, but we were all wacked for misdemeanours.

If Josh and his ilk don't take a wider view of the past, and New Zealand doesn't go forward as one nation, we will end up like, say, Northern Ireland or Iraq with vicious killings and car bombs on The Strand and at iwi events.

We all need to wake up!

Bill Capamagian, Tauranga.