During World War II, the tiny island of Tanna in the South Pacific became one of many outposts that American troops temporarily occupied. The residents of Tanna, previously sheltered from the developed world, were exposed to things like radios, packaged foods, cigarette lighters, and Jeeps. They never forgot the mysterious luxury goods that the G.I.’s brought with them.

After the troops moved away, some of these remote people groups developed “cargo cults,” religions based around the worship of a god who would one day return bearing material gifts, like cars and flashlights.

One of the last known surviving cargo cults still exists on the island of Tanna, where many people identify themselves as members of the John Frum religion. According to the worshipers, John Frum was an American soldier who lived in Tanna during World War II. He brought fascinating luxury items with him, like radios and televisions and Jeeps. And he promised to come back with more goods if the islanders continued to pray to him. Numerous islanders pray to John Frum. They also compose songs of praise to him and to American factories that make luxury goods. Every February 15, the citizens of Tanna celebrate John Frum day with songs, dances, and elaborate ceremonies.