In the context of Ngā Whanaketanga Rumaki Māori, kōrero relates to oral communication or speaking. Oral communication is an important part of Māori culture and, more generally, an important part of conversing and connecting with others regardless of culture. Kōrero is especially important with Māori because up until the 19th century Māori was not a written language and speaking was the primary means of sharing information, or stories, and passing knowledge down through generations. Speaking in person also conveys the emotional or spiritual aspects of a message more strongly.