Exclusive in spirit, independent in outlook, the valiant Nagas of North-East India could not tolerate foreigner’s interference in their internal affairs, or encroachment on their primordial rights. Security measures brought the British authorities in Assam in contact with the Nagas and in the course of around half a century they found themselves in the position of virtual conquerors of the Naga Hills. But this position was gained, not without a challenges from the Nagas. In fact from the very beginning, the British-Naga relationship was marked by hostility and unfriendliness. The British fought and punished the Nagas, but the latter were not slow to accept the challenge; they were an equal match to the white men. There was however, a silver-lining amidst these challenges and counter-challenges. The British finally befriended the Nagas and brought peace and order among them by following different policies at different times. The methods were directed by the exigencies of the situation, and the character and civilization of the various tribes. The American Baptist Mission worked closely with the British administration in civilizing and reclaiming the Nagas from their primitive lives. As a result head-hunting within the administered boundary quickly disappeared. Inter-village feuds came to an end and the Nagas settled down to somewhat more peaceful living. Thus the Nagas entertained an attitude of confidence and goodwill towards the British rulers till the end of World War II. The present in-depth and documentary study aims at providing an analytical basis of British relations with the Nagas. Undoubtedly essential reading for all who wish to have background knowledge of the Nagas whose legendary virility and sincerity are beyond question. Now the focus of the international news media, the continuing peace talks with the Government of India are being closely monitored by other insurgent groups of the region and political analysts.
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