Cargo cults

Definition

Cargo cults are religious movements that emerged in Melanesia during the early to mid-20th century, primarily in response to the arrival of Western colonizers and their material goods. These cults often involve the belief that ancestral spirits or deities will deliver material wealth, or 'cargo,' to the faithful, similar to what was seen with Western goods brought by colonizers. Cargo cults reflect a unique blend of traditional beliefs and the impacts of colonialism, highlighting how indigenous groups interpret and adapt their spiritual practices in light of foreign influences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cargo cults often arose during and after World War II when indigenous populations experienced a sudden influx of Western military supplies and technology.
2. The term 'cargo cult' was popularized after the John Frum movement on the island of Tanna, where followers awaited the return of a figure who would bring them material wealth.
3. Many cargo cults incorporate traditional Melanesian beliefs, merging them with new ideas about wealth and spirituality introduced by colonizers.
4. Rituals within cargo cults can include the construction of mock airstrips and airplanes, symbolizing the desire for material goods to be delivered from the sky.
5. Cargo cults highlight the complex relationship between indigenous cultures and colonial powers, as they often critique colonialism while simultaneously expressing desires for its material benefits.

Review Questions

• How did the historical context of colonialism contribute to the emergence of cargo cults in Melanesia?
  • The emergence of cargo cults in Melanesia can be traced back to the significant disruptions caused by colonialism and World War II. As Western colonizers introduced new goods and technologies, indigenous populations experienced both fascination and disillusionment. This led to a reinterpretation of traditional beliefs, as many Melanesians sought to understand why they were not receiving similar benefits. Consequently, cargo cults developed as a response to these experiences, blending indigenous spirituality with aspirations for material wealth.
• Discuss the role of rituals in cargo cults and how they reflect the beliefs of their followers.
  • Rituals play a crucial role in cargo cults as they serve as expressions of hope and anticipation for the arrival of wealth. Followers engage in elaborate ceremonies that may include constructing mock airplanes or airstrips, reflecting their desire for material goods believed to be delivered from ancestral spirits or deities. These rituals not only embody their beliefs about spirituality and wealth but also function as acts of resistance against colonial influences, allowing participants to create meaning from their experiences.
• Evaluate how cargo cults illustrate the broader themes of syncretism and cultural adaptation in indigenous religions.
  • Cargo cults provide a compelling example of syncretism, where traditional beliefs are adapted and transformed in response to external influences such as colonialism. By merging aspects of their indigenous spiritual practices with new ideas about material wealth introduced by colonizers, followers create unique belief systems that reflect their changing realities. This illustrates a broader theme in indigenous religions where cultural adaptation is vital for survival; it demonstrates resilience in preserving identity while navigating complex encounters with outside forces.

Related terms

Millenarianism: A belief in a coming transformation of society, often involving a significant change in the world order or the establishment of a utopian society.

Syncretism: The blending of different religious beliefs and practices into a new, cohesive system, often occurring in response to cultural contact and exchange.

Rituals:

Structured and repeated actions or ceremonies that are performed for specific purposes within a religious or cultural context.