Since the islands were first sighted by the Dutch navigator Abel Tasman in 1642, Fiji’s history has indeed been rich and colourful. From the notorious practices involved with warfare and cannibalism, to the establishment of new trade routes and the eventual conversion to Christianity, Fiji’s history is quite remarkable. The country was ceded to Britain with the signing of the Deed of Cession in 1874 and after nearly a century under colonial rule, gained independence in 1970. With its vibrant history, Fiji is a multicultural nation, known for the friendliness of locals and the easygoing way of life they enjoy.