The legacy of Jean-Claude Rivierre in the far south of New Caledonia

Résumé 0

Jean-Claude Rivierre’s first field trip was to the far south. Sent by Haudricourt, who discovered the existence of tones in the 1960s, he went there to study the phonology and, more specifically, the tonology, which would lead to much further research in the field. The first part of this article highlights the work he accomplished in this region; the second part shows how these studies served as a launching pad for further scientific research and projects whose aim it was to promote Kanak languages and culture. Some of his work has been published, some has not, but his work leaves no one indifferent. This legacy, a mine of knowledge for speakers wishing to protect an important part of their cultural heritage, is fundamental for a new generation of researchers.