External Compulsions of Sri Lanka’s History

Abstract

The subject matter of this research spans from the earliest times since independence. The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines that History is often perceived as a mosaic of discrete occurrences. Sri Lanka’s historical mosaic has evolved as a result of internal and external events that have taken place over the years. As an island, Sri Lanka’s relationship with the global community in land and sea domains have been particularly important in the evolution of Sri Lanka’s historical narrative. On the other hand, a key turning point such as King Vijaya’s arrival in Sri Lanka has mainly taken place due to Sri Lanka’s close proximity to India. Therefore, the factor -strategic location and the close proximity to the Indian sub-continent- played a significant role in shaping Sri Lanka’s historical record. Historically Mahawamsa portrays Vijaya as the first king to establish civilized rule in Sri Lanka. Then rule of King Dewanampiyatissa stands out due to advent of Buddhism during his reign. These events took place due to the fact that India is separated only by a narrow strait. Sri Lanka has been invaded by South Indians at various times due to the same fact. It is almost the same as the French regularly invading England and vice versa. Invasions -whether for trade or for territory- have also changed the political, economic and social environment in Sri Lanka. Due to the favourable geographic location -being situated in the hub of sea lanes in the Indian Ocean- later in 1505, the Portuguese landed in Sri Lanka purely by chance. Subsequently Dutch and the British followed the Portuguese. This paper is an attempt at interpreting Sri Lanka’s major historical events through the lens of international relations.