History of Sri Lanka

From its misty prehistoric origins to the political and economic crises of the 21st century, this book charts the complete and storied history of Sri Lanka. Known to ancient Greeks as Taprobanē and to Arab traders as Sarandīb-the land of serendipity-the island's journey is one of magnificent achievements and profound turmoil. Readers will explore the grandeur of the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, marvel at the engineering genius behind the great irrigation works, and understand the deep and lasting impact of Buddhism's arrival. The narrative traces the island's central role in the maritime Silk Road, a history rich with cultural exchange, religious devotion, and legendary kings.

The story takes a dramatic turn with the arrival of European powers, beginning with the Portuguese in the 16th century. This volume meticulously details over four centuries of colonial domination, from the Portuguese quest for cinnamon, to the Dutch commercial empire, and finally to the British consolidation of the entire island. It examines the creation of a vast plantation economy built on coffee and tea, the social transformations that gave rise to a new Ceylonese elite, and the cultural and religious revivals that stirred the first embers of nationalism. The book provides a clear-eyed look at the complex legacy of colonialism, which unified the island administratively while laying the groundwork for future divisions.

Covering the pivotal moments of the modern era, this history chronicles the peaceful transfer of power in 1948 and the challenges faced by the newly independent nation of Ceylon. It delves into the crucial and controversial "Sinhala Only Act" and the subsequent deepening of ethnic divisions that spiralled into a brutal, three-decade civil war between the state and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The narrative continues beyond the war's conclusion in 2009, navigating the complex challenges of post-conflict reconciliation, the rise of authoritarianism, and the stunning political upheavals and economic crises that have defined Sri Lanka in recent years, offering a comprehensive and essential understanding of this resilient and multifaceted island nation.