History

Apart from a period of 15 years under Portuguese occupation, the Maldives has been independent throughout its recorded history. However, it was a British protectorate from 1887 till 1965 and although its first written constitution was proclaimed in 1932.

It is believed that Maldives was first inhabited by immigrants who also settled in Sri Lanka, originating from a group of Aryan immigrants. It was subsequently also settled by migrants from Sri Lanka as well as from India. Archeological sites indicate that the Maldives was settled by as early as 1500 BC.

Although Buddhism played a major role in ancient Maldivian society, there was great influence from Persian and Arab travelers especially in the 12th century, and Maldives converted to Islam in 1153AD.

In ancient times Maldives was ruled by dynasties of kings, and sometimes queens. There were six dynasties with 84 Sultans and Sultanas.

During the sixteenth century, the country was threatened by the Portuguese who took the country over for a period of 15 years.At this time, the greatest Maldivian hero, Mohammed Thakurufaanu, drove away the invaders after having killed the leader of the Portuguese.

After this, the Maldives was at peace until raiders from Malabar attacked in early 18th century. However, they were soon driven away and the Huraage Dynasty came into existence under its first ruler, Ghazi Hassan Izzaddeen. After this latest foreign attack, the Maldives established an alliance with Sri Lanka.

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