Description:
Fiji is an island country located in the South Pacific Ocean. The population of Fiji is approximately 953,000. The name Fiji is derived from the word Viti, which in turn is derived from the Indian word Vyti. The island was first settled by Austronesian people around 1000 BC. The first known European to sight the island was Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. The British established a colony on the island in 1874. The country became a republic in 1970. Fiji was admitted to the United Nations in 1970. The culture of Fiji is influenced by its Hindu, Christian, and Muslim populations. Customs in Fiji include wearing of traditional dress, eating local food, and participating in traditional ceremonies. The language spoken in Fiji is Fijian. There are several variations of the Fijian language, including Bislama, which is used in government and business.
