Like the ethnic mix on the islands, the Fijian language also contains aspects of
both Melanesian and Polynesian. However, most other cultural aspects in Fiji came
from Tonga and are heavily Polynesian influenced, including many of the foods.
Although many foods, the language, and the ethnicity are primarily based on regional
influences, much of the country's modern day culture is based on European influences.
The greatest of these influences came from the United Kingdom, which introduced
Christianity, the English language as a second language, ended cannibalism, added
new technology, and introduced Indian laborers in the late 1800s.
While many aspects of English culture survived, however perhaps the greatest change
came with the immigrating Indian population, who brought with them their own culture
and traditions, including languages, religions, foods, and dress. Today the ethnic
Indians make up nearly half of the island's total population and the divide
between the ethnic Indians and Fijians is obvious as both have solidified their
cultures on the island. However, the people also share many commonalities, such
as English, which is the language of communication, a lifestyle based off the land,
some foods, and other cultural aspects.