Dutch Ceylon

Dutch Ceylon refers to the period from the early 17th century to the late 18th century when the Dutch controlled parts of the island of Sri Lanka, known historically as Ceylon. The Dutch East India Company established trade routes and settlements primarily to control the lucrative cinnamon trade. They captured coastal regions from the Portuguese and built forts to protect their interests. This period ended when the British took control, marking a significant chapter in Sri Lanka's colonial history that influenced the island's culture, economy, and governance.