A World Before 1854, the Origins of Fijian Culture
This section focuses on studying the origins of Fijian culture. Looking into where culture originates is integral for understanding it. You will learn about the historic roots of today’s Fijian tradition whilst also grasping how it has changed. Pre-Globalised Fiji looked very different to how you might see Fiji today, after being ceded to Queen Victoria in 1874 and after the widespread adoption of Christianity its traditions and culture have changed significantly. But in its study lies the foundations for everything that remains in the unique Fijian Culture today… its polity and way of life.
Here’s a brief introduction to what Fiji would have looked like 200 years ago:
Pre-Globalised Fiji Webinar
- Religion as the foundation of culture (00:40)
- Chief and Village (16:13)
- Tribal Relations (25:52)
- First Western Contact (27:50)
Check this out
The Fiji Museum have put together a virtual tor…
This virtual tour around some of The Fiji Museum’s best exhibits is an amazing opportunity to learn more about what is discussed in the video. There are some amazing photographs, items and clothing to be seen.
Some Further Reading…
Traditional Society
Tuka Movement
This article gives a very detailed overview on understanding the structure and origin of Fijian Society, in past and contemporary times. The article goes into detail about topics discussed above; the complex ideas of yavusa, mataqali, tokatoka and mana.
The Tuka movement was a revitalisation of the ‘old-ways’ movement, a militant response to colonialism towards the end of the 19th Century. It provides a fascinating insight into the initial troubles between the old and new in 19th Century Fiji.