Trade, Influence, and Collaboration: The Enduring Bond Between Tamilaham and Ceylon

ABSTRACT

Throughout history, Tamilaham and Ceylon have maintained a close and enduring relationship. These two nations have often collaborated for mutual commercial benefits, with instances of cooperation spanning back to ancient times. However, the ascent of imperialistic tendencies among the rulers of Tamilaham led to instances of collusion, resulting in Ceylon being subjected to Tamil dominance. The migration of Tamils appears to have transpired from ancient epochs, suggesting that Ceylon might not have existed as an independent entity until prehistoric eras. Rather, it was integrated as an integral part of Tamilaham. According to the Lemurian Theory, South India, Ceylon, New Zealand, Australia, the Malay islands, as well as neighboring islands, were all interconnected by land. Tamilaham and Ceylon played pivotal roles in early foreign trade. Their geographical proximity facilitated maritime commerce through the Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar. Notably, Ceylon wielded a disproportionately influential role in maritime trade, defying its modest size. The island nation boasted favorable attributes that appealed to seafarers engaged in trade. It offered secure harbors for ships circumnavigating the island and provided essential amenities for sailors, including vital provisions. Moreover, Ceylon possessed sought-after trade goods highly coveted in Western markets, while simultaneously demonstrating a demand for the commercial products of both Eastern and Western nations. Despite being an island, Ceylon was not isolated due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, situated centrally and in proximity to India.

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