The Naga tribes, residing primarily in the northeastern region of India and parts of northwestern Myanmar, have a rich and complex history marked by distinct ethnic identities, warrior traditions, and a fiercely independent spirit. Historically, they lived in autonomous village-states governed by tribal councils, practicing shifting cultivation and maintaining strong clan-based societies. Renowned for their headhunting practices, which were symbolic of valor and status, the Nagas fiercely resisted outside domination. During British colonial rule, the Nagas were brought under administrative control, though many retained their traditional systems. The post-independence period witnessed the rise of Naga nationalism, leading to insurgency movements demanding autonomy or independence.
Despite various peace efforts, the region has seen prolonged conflict. Culturally vibrant, the Naga tribes have unique festivals like Hornbill, rich oral traditions, and intricate crafts. Today, while modern influences have brought change, the Nagas continue to uphold their identity with pride and resilience.
THE preface, to one unaccustomed to the pains and honours of authorship, is perhaps the most difficult part of his labours. The present work is one that will blush to find a name, for it was begun only as a rough de-tail of facts, that occurred within the writer's personal observation, and is only cast on the world at the persuasion of a few friends, partial ones no doubt, who considered that some of them were novel, and therefore worth the communicating, if only as feelers for the publication of the movements of those more able than the author of the present brochure.
But at all events; the filling up of his original sketches has served to amuse vacant hours; which have been unwillingly obtained, as they would be joyfully relinquished, could he find any more profitable means of employing them.
If the following notes should develope or assist the inquiries of others, or serve to wile away a spare portion of time with the passing reader, his wishes are more than gratified, and he will for once think that he has not quite wasted his time. It will be evident to many readers, that, where necessary, the writer has not hesitated to avail himself of the observations of others on the same tract of country, and particularly of those of Mr. Robinson, who has been more fortunate than himself in having had access to public documents which were not available upon the present occasion. To this gentleman, therefore, are tendered the best acknowledgements for the use made of his observations.
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