Pedia, where learning meets laughter!

Sri Lankan History

Disclaimer: The following article is a work of fiction and should not be taken seriously. The humor presented in this article is intended for entertainment purposes only.

The history of Sri Lanka, also known as the teardrop island, is as colorful as its spicy cuisine. The island was known for its valuable resources and strategic location, which made it a target for many invaders throughout its history.

Early History

Sri Lanka’s earliest inhabitants were believed to be the mythical creatures known as Yakshas and Nagas. However, there is no scientific evidence to support their existence, so we will skip ahead to the time when the island was first discovered by Vijaya, a prince from India. Legend has it that Vijaya and his companions landed on the island after a shipwreck and decided to stay. They soon found out that the island was inhabited by a group of women who were skilled in archery. Vijaya and his companions decided to marry these women, and thus began the Sinhalese civilization.

Coming of Buddhism

The third century BC saw the advent of Buddhism on the island, thanks to the Indian emperor Ashoka. The religion was embraced by the Sinhalese people, and it soon became the dominant religion. The Buddhist monks were highly respected in society, and they wielded considerable power. It is said that the king of Sri Lanka once fought a war against the gods because they refused to obey a Buddhist monk’s orders.

European Invaders

In the 16th century, Sri Lanka became a hub for trade routes connecting Europe and Asia. This attracted the attention of European powers, and the island became a coveted colony. Portuguese, Dutch, and British invaders controlled the island at various points in time. The Portuguese were interested in converting the locals to Christianity, while the Dutch were keen on producing cinnamon. The British took control of Sri Lanka during the Napoleonic Wars and ruled until the country gained independence in 1948.

Civil War

The post-independence era of Sri Lanka was marked by a bloody civil war between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a militant group that wanted a separate state for Tamils. The conflict lasted for 26 years and claimed the lives of thousands of Sri Lankans. The war finally ended in 2009 when the government declared victory over the LTTE.

Modern Day Sri Lanka

Today, Sri Lanka is known for its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and spicy cuisine. It is a popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world. The island also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional dances, music, and festivals.

In conclusion, Sri Lanka’s history is a tumultuous one, filled with invasions, wars, and colonization. However, the island’s resilience and spirit have allowed it to rise above these challenges and become a thriving nation. So the next time you visit Sri Lanka, take a moment to appreciate its colorful past, and maybe even raise a glass of arrack to the Yakshas and Nagas who started it all.