In Vanuatu, from Epi northwards—and particularly on Malekula, Ambrym and Ambae—status and power are earned by taking grades through the nimangki system. Prestige flows to those aspirants who have publicly given away their wealth by holding a series of spectacular ceremonies, which are always accompanied by traditional dancing and feasting.

Each step up the village social ladder is accompanied by the ritual killing of pigs. Because a boar takes between six and seven years to grow a good set of tusks, which is a prized article, only those men wealthy enough to own a large number of pigs can hope to reach society’s highest levels.

The nimangki system allows even those men who can only afford to hold a few pig-killing ceremonies to take their place on the social ladder. It also provides a man with status in the afterlife. The spirit of a villager who has risen far in his clan hierarchy will command considerable respect from those still living.

To rise a grade, a man holds a feast with sometimes scores of pigs lined up for slaughter. Then, in front of fellow villagers, he walks along the line killing selected animals with blows to the head. Others he will simply touch to show that although he considers them suitable food, they’ll be slaughtered later.

In addition, the aspirant will present a number of woven mats as well as sufficient yams and taro for a lavish meal. By means of this conspicuous destruction of his assets, the villager moves up the nimangki grade, earning new respect from his fellows for his wealth and generosity.

In Ambrym, these ceremonies are called Maghe, and are major customary events. More than 120 pigs may be slaughtered if several men are taking grades together. Although some ceremonies are for one person only, up to six men at a time are permitted to take part in most lower-grade events.

The most elaborate grade-taking system is practiced in Southwest Bay, on the island of Malekula, where aspiring males have as many as 35 grades to pass in the process of becoming a bigman or chief.

Grade taking is called sukwe in the Banks. Here, the process was less traditional. Its significance is less here, due to the influence of the Anglican missionaries of the DOM (Diocese of