Colonial suppression of Tuka movement through destruction of towns and religious relics

In an effort to suppress the Tuka movement on Vanua Levu, the Armed Native Constabulary carried out orders to destroy highland towns and religious relics. The Tuka movement, led by prophetic figures, had gained substantial traction among indigenous Fijians. Its followers resisted colonial rule and practices, promoting a return to traditional ways and asserting cultural identity over colonial impositions. The colonial government sought to quash this resistance, viewing it as a challenge to their authority and a threat to stability. The Armed Native Constabulary was deployed with specific directives to dismantle the infrastructure of the movement. This involved attacking villages situated in the highlands, which were key centers of Tuka influence. Religious artifacts, which held significant cultural and spiritual value for the Tuka adherents, were systematically destroyed. The impact of these actions was considerable. The loss of homes, displacement of communities, and destruction of religious relics not only aimed to erode the physical manifestations of the Tuka movement but also to demoralize its followers. This suppression tactic was a demonstration of the lengths to which the colonial authorities were willing to go to maintain control and enforce their rule. Subsequently, the Tuka movement's influence waned, as the disruption of their communities and spiritual symbols weakened their capacity to mount further resistance. The colonial government’s response to the Tuka movement is reflective of the broader dynamics of resistance and suppression that marked the era. #MoofLife #ColonialResistance #TukaSuppression #FijianHistory #CulturalHeritage