Fiji History

After many encounters with explorers, William Bligh explored Fiji in 1792. At the beginning of the 19th century, foreign interest increased with the discovery of sandalwood. Sandalwood was soon depleted. Methodism established itself with the conversion in 1854 of Fiji’s ruler, Ratu Seru Cakobau. Roman Catholic and Anglican missionaries had less success. Great Britain made Fiji a colony in 1874. From 1879-1916, the British brought in indentured Indian laborers to work on sugar plantations. Many of these Indian immigrants settled permanently in Fiji. Fiji was occupied by Allied forces during World War II. There has been continued strife between native Fijians and Indians.