Fiji Chiefs explores the historical and contemporary roles of Fijian chiefs, examining how traditional leadership has evolved through colonialism and into modern governance. The book highlights that chiefs held significant power in pre-colonial Fiji, influencing governance, land ownership, and spiritual life.
Colonization brought about significant shifts, yet the chiefly system persisted, creating a complex dynamic between traditional authority and colonial structures, which continues to shape Fijian politics.
The book is structured to provide a comprehensive overview, starting with an introduction to the traditional roles and responsibilities of chiefs in pre-colonial Fijian society. It then examines the impact of British colonialism, detailing how colonial administrators strategically used and sometimes manipulated chiefly power.
Finally, the book analyzes the role of chiefs in post-independence Fiji, exploring their involvement in national politics and the challenges they face in modern governance. The book draws upon diverse sources, including archival materials, colonial records, and interviews, to provide a nuanced understanding suitable for those interested in Fijian history and political science.
