Fiji became a British Crown Colony in 1874, and an independent dominion in the British Commonwealth in 1970; the British Monarch (Queen Elizabeth II remained the Head of State until 1987, when she formally abdicated following two military coups). From 1874 to 1987 the Monarch's functions were exercised in Fiji by his or her representative, the Governor (up to 1970), and, following independence, by the Governor-General.

1. Sir Robert Sidney Foster  : 10 October 1970-13 January 1973
2. Ratu Sir George Cakobau : 13 January 1973-12 February 1983
3. Ratu Sir Penaia Ganilau : 12 February 1983-6 October 1987