Portuguese colonization of Sri Lanka from "summary" of Ceylon by Paul Edward Pieris
In the 16th century, Sri Lanka experienced Portuguese colonization, with a lasting impact on the country's culture and history. This period of colonization included the introduction of new religions, the establishment of trading settlements, and the enslavement of indigenous people.- Portuguese colonization of Sri Lanka is the result of power struggle between different nations during the 16th and 17th centuries. Portugal was one of those nations which set its foot in the region to gain control over sea-trade routes and resources.
- Amazingly, the Portuguese created their own Catholic dioceses here, making it the very first South Asian colonies to have a an established a church action based administration.
- Despite some ups and downs, this rule lasted three decades until Portuguese were defeat by Dutch forces who ultimately freed Ceylon in 1656.
- Unfortunately, many portions of cultural heritage in this period were neglected as part of heavy oppression upon locals living at that time.
- As for local politics, the main aim of Portuguese authorities was convert Sinhalese population's religious beliefs from Buddhism to Christianity by any means.
- Nevertheless, people inhabiting divided Ceylon did manage to protect various physical monuments and artifacts such as major worship sites and bibliographical texts for sheer appreciation.
- Moreover, Portuguese rulers from time to time sought cooperation with noble households in order to maintain strong authority within the area.
