colonial history of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s colonial history involves several European powers. The Portuguese arrived in the 16th century, establishing control and influencing local culture. In the 17th century, the Dutch displaced the Portuguese, strengthening trade and administration. By the late 18th century, the British took control, making Sri Lanka a British colony in 1815. Under British rule, plantations like tea, coffee, and rubber flourished, transforming the economy and society. Sri Lanka gained independence from Britain in 1948, ending colonial rule but inheriting many colonial legacies in governance, infrastructure, and cultural diversity.