The Colourful History Of The Maldives

By Author: Anna Paquin
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The Maldives islands are a very popular travel destination. Whether you are looking for an all-inclusive holiday in Maldives with your family or even a luxury honeymoon in Maldives, it offers so many unique experiences that will make your vacation truly memorable. Many people these days plan their destination wedding in Maldives because of its scenic beauty and true luxury experiences.

The history of these islands is rich and varied, spanning over a period of several thousand years. It is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, and its history is marked by a mix of influences from neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka, India, and the Persian Gulf. Here are some key events and periods in the history of the country.

Ancient History
The island has been inhabited since ancient times, and evidence of early human settlement has been found on some of the islands. Archaeologists have discovered Buddhist ruins and artifacts, suggesting that the early settlers were followers of Buddhism.

The ancient history of the country is not well documented, and much of what is known about this period comes from archaeology ...
... and oral tradition. Here are some key points about its ancient history:
• Early Settlers: The earliest human settlement is believed to date back to around the 5th century BCE. The early settlers were probably fisherman and sailors from the Indian subcontinent, and they likely brought with them elements of Hinduism and Buddhism.
• Buddhism: Buddhism was the dominant religion during the ancient period, and there is evidence of Buddhist ruins and artifacts on some of the islands. The most significant Buddhist site in the Maldives is a large stupa (a dome-shaped monument) located on the island of Malé, which was probably built in the 6th century CE.
• Trade and Navigation: It has a long history of trade and navigation, and the ancient Maldivians were skilled sailors who traded with countries in the region, including Sri Lanka, India, and the Persian Gulf. This was an important stop on the maritime trade routes of the Indian Ocean, and this helped to shape the country's cultural and economic ties with neighbouring countries.
• Conversion to Islam: In the 12th century, the country converted to Islam, and the religion continues to play an important role in the country's culture and identity. The conversion to Islam likely took place as a result of the influence of Arab traders and sailors, who were active in the region at the time.

Islamic Period
The Islamic period in the history of the island is considered one of the most important and influential periods in the country's history. During this period, it underwent significant political, cultural, and religious changes, which helped to shape the country's modern identity. Here are some key points about the Islamic period in the history of the Maldives:
• Conversion to Islam: It converted to Islam in the 12th century, and the religion continues to play an important role in the country's culture and identity. The conversion to Islam was likely influenced by Arab traders and sailors who were active in the region at the time.
• Rise of the Sultanate: In the late 12th century, it became a sultanate, with the first Sultan being Mohamed Bin Abdullah. The sultanate was a monarchy, and the country was ruled by a series of sultans who held both political and religious power.
• Maritime Power: During the Islamic period, it became a powerful maritime nation with a strong navy. The country was located at the crossroads of major maritime trade routes, and this helped to shape its economy and cultural ties with neighbouring countries.
• Cultural Development: The Islamic period saw significant cultural development, including the development of a unique form of the Arabic script known as Divehi Akuru, which is still used in the country today. The country also saw the development of a rich literary tradition, with many works of poetry and prose being produced during this period.
• Historical Legacy: The Islamic period has left a lasting legacy on the Maldives, and the country's modern identity is still shaped by its Islamic heritage. Today, it is a predominantly Muslim country, and Islam continues to play an important role in the country's cultural and political life.

Portuguese Occupation
The Portuguese occupation of the islands was a significant event in the country's history and had a lasting impact on its culture, politics, and economy. Here are some key points about the Portuguese occupation:
• Arrival of the Portuguese: In the 16th century, the Portuguese arrived in the country as part of their quest for control over the maritime trade routes of the Indian Ocean. The Portuguese sought to establish a colony in the Maldives and establish their control over the country's valuable resources, including spices, precious stones, and precious metals.
• Conquest of Malé: The Portuguese quickly established a foothold here and conquered the capital city of Malé in 1558. They imposed their rule on the country and attempted to convert the population to Christianity.
• Resistance and Rebellion: The Portuguese rule was met with resistance and rebellion from the local population, who were deeply attached to their Islamic faith and culture. The resistance was led by local sultans and religious leaders, who sought to reclaim the country from the Portuguese.
• End of the Occupation: The Portuguese rule was short-lived, and the country was eventually liberated from their control in the mid-17th century. The Portuguese were driven out of the country by the combined forces of local sultans and the Dutch East India Company, which was seeking to establish its own control over the region's trade routes.
• Legacy of the Occupation: Despite its brief duration, the Portuguese occupation had a lasting impact. The country's culture and politics were deeply affected by the Portuguese presence, and many elements of Portuguese language, religion, and architecture can still be seen in the country today.

British Protectorate
The British protectorate in the history of the Maldives was a period of significant political, cultural, and economic change for the country. Here are some key points about the British protectorate:
• Establishment of the Protectorate: In 1887, the islands became a British protectorate, with the country being placed under the indirect control of the British government. The British saw it as a strategically important location in the Indian Ocean, and sought to establish a protectorate over the country in order to protect their interests in the region.
• Political and Economic Reforms: During the protectorate, the British introduced a number of political and economic reforms. They introduced a new constitution, which provided for a more centralized and democratic system of government. They also established a formal administration, with a governor appointed by the British government, and introduced a number of economic reforms aimed at modernizing the country's economy.
• Influence on Culture and Society: The British protectorate had a lasting impact on the culture and society. The country's political, cultural, and economic ties with the British Empire helped to shape its modern identity and cultural heritage. English became the language of administration, education, and trade, and the country's education system was reformed, leading to greater access to education for the population.
• End of the Protectorate: The British protectorate ended in 1965, when the country gained independence from Britain. The country's independence was achieved peacefully, and the country became a republic with a new constitution and a democratic system of government.

Independence
The gaining of independence by the Maldives was a pivotal moment in the country's history and marked a new chapter in its political and cultural development. Here are some key points about their independence:
• Struggle for independence: The struggle for independence in the Maldives was a long and complex process, marked by periods of political uncertainty and social upheaval. The country's political leaders and citizens sought greater autonomy and freedom from foreign control, and worked to establish a more democratic and independent nation.
• End of the British Protectorate: The British protectorate over the Maldives ended on July 26, 1965, when the country gained independence from Britain. The independence was achieved peacefully, and the country became a republic with a new constitution and a democratic system of government.
• Formation of the Republic: After gaining independence, the country became a republic, with a president as the head of state and a parliamentary system of government. The country's first president was Ibrahim Nasir, who served as president from 1968 to 1978 and was instrumental in shaping the country's modern identity.
• Development and Modernization: Since independence, the Maldives has undergone significant development and modernization, becoming one of the most prosperous and developed countries in the region. The country has made significant progress in areas such as education, healthcare, and tourism, and has become a popular destination for international travellers.
• Political Challenges: Despite its economic success, the Maldives has faced a number of political challenges in recent years, including periods of political instability, constitutional reforms, and allegations of human rights abuses. Nevertheless, the country has continued to make progress, and remains an important player on the regional and international stage.

These are just some of the key events and periods in the history of the Maldives. The country has a rich cultural heritage, and its history has been shaped by a variety of influences from different regions and cultures.

What are the best historical sites to visit while travelling in the Maldives?
The Maldives has a rich and diverse history, with a number of important historical sites that are worth visiting for those interested in the country's cultural and heritage. Here are some of the best historical sites to visit in the Maldives:
• Hukuru Miskiyy Mosque: This is one of the oldest and most important mosques in the country, dating back to the 17th century. It is located in the capital city of Malé and is a beautiful example of traditional Maldivian architecture.
• National Museum: The National Museum is housed in a 17th century building in Malé and contains a rich collection of cultural artifacts and historical objects that shed light on the country's history and heritage.
• Hithadhoo Mosque: This is one of the oldest mosques in the southern part of the country and is an important religious site for local communities.
• Utheemu Ganduvaru: This is the birthplace of the legendary Maldivian hero Mohamed Thakurufaanu, who led a successful rebellion against Portuguese rule in the 16th century.
• Muliaage Palace: This is the former presidential palace in Malé and is now used as a museum and cultural centre. The palace is an important example of colonial-era architecture in the country.
• Huraa Island: This is a small island in the north of the country that was the site of the first mosque built in the Maldives after the introduction of Islam.

These are just a few of the many historical sites that are worth visiting while travelling in the Maldives. Whether you are interested in the country's rich cultural heritage, its colonial history, or its religious traditions, there are plenty of interesting and unique places to explore.

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