AMSTERDAM, or Tongataboo, an island in the South Sea, discovered by Tasman, a Dutch navigator. Its greatest extent from east to west is about 21 miles, and from north to south about 13. It is broad at the east end, and tapers towards the west, where it turns, and runs to a point due north. It is about six leagues to the west of Middleburg. The shore is surrounded by coral rocks, and its most elevated parts are not above six or eight yards above the level of the sea. It is wholly laid out in plantations, in which are cultivated plantains in great variety, bread-fruit, shaddocks,
yams, and the fruits of Taheite, with taro, and other esculent vegetables in great abundance. The people are familiar with the use of the bow and spear, and are dexterous fishermen. Their manners are licentious; but they have some commendable qualities, according to the missionaries; though other accounts represent them as cruel, treacherous, and vindictive. Long. 175. W. Lat. 21. 11. S.