The Detailed History of Kerala!
Kerala sometimes referred to as the Spice Coast of India has a long & famous history. As early as 3000 BCE Kerala may have been connected to ancient maritime trade routes according to archeological & literary evidence. From very early times traders from the Middle East, Europe & Asia were drawn to it because of its abundance of spices such as cardamom & black pepper.
The Chera dynasty the first significant kingdom in the area rose to power in the early historical era. The Cheras were strong kings who ruled over portions of modern day Tamil Nadu & Kerala. Kodungallur (ancient Muziris) a thriving port that connected the Roman Empire with other ancient civilizations served as their capital.
Key Facts!
- Kerala has been a spice exporter since 3000 BCE.
- The ancient port of Muziris was a major hub for trade with the Romans, Arabs & Chinese.
- The Chera dynasty ruled from around the early centuries CE to the 12th century CE.
Medieval Period -The Kulasekhara Dynasty and Fragmentation!
At its height the Kulasekhara dynasty (the second Chera kingdom) ruled over most of present day Kerala & portions of Tamil Nadu circa 800 CE. Along with significant social developments like the Bhakti movement within Hinduism this era was characterized by prosperity in trade the arts & literature.
By the tenth century kerala had separated from Tamil Nadu linguistically giving rise to a distinct cultural identity & the Malayalam language. Administratively the kingdom was separated into provinces each of which was further subdivided into Desams & governed by regional chieftains known as Naduvazhis.
However, attacks by the Later Pandyas & Cholas caused the powerful Kulasekhara dynasty to collapse by the 14th century causing the area to become divided into numerous tiny warring principalities. These included –
- The kingdom of Samuthiri (Zamorin) in northern Kerala
- The Venad kingdom in the south
- The Kochi kingdom in the central region
Social and Religious Changes
- Decline of Buddhism & Jainism.
- Rise of Brahminical Hinduism with increased temple construction.
- Separation of social groups solidified with reinforced caste structures.
- The famous Mamankam festival was prominent during this era.
Colonial Period – European Trade and Political Changes!
European influence began when Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama arrived in Calicut in 1498. The Dutch & then the British quickly followed the Portuguese in their search for dominance of the profitable spice trade.
From the 16th century onward –
- Along the Malabar Coast, the Portuguese built strongholds.
- In 1663, Kochi was taken by the Dutch.
- Following their victory over the Mysore Kingdom in the late 18th century, the British East India Company eventually seized control of Malabar.
Several local rulers resisted colonial domination. Notable figures include –
- Kerala The “Lion of Kerala,” Varma Pazhassi Raja (1753–1805), led an uprising against the British.
- Travancore’s prime minister, Velu Thampi Dalawa, rebelled against British rule.
During the 19th & early 20th centuries the princely states of Travancore & Cochin experienced substantial reforms in public infrastructure, education & administration while maintaining a degree of autonomy under British suzerainty.
Social Reform Movements and the Road to Independence!
Kerala was a center for progressive social reforms aimed at eradicating caste discrimination & promoting education. Major reformers included –
- Sree Narayana Guru who promoted social equality & spiritual enlightenment.
- Ayyankali who worked for the rights of oppressed Dalits.
- Chattampi Swamikal a religious & social reformer.
Important events in this era –
- Vaikom Satyagraha (1924) – A peaceful movement that secured road access rights for lower castes near the Vaikom temple.
- Temple Entry Proclamation (1936) by the Travancore ruler Chithira Thirunal, allowing all Hindus to enter temples for the first time.
Kerala was also active in the national independence movement with uprisings such as the 1921 Malabar Rebellion by Mappila Muslims against British rule.
Post-Independence Era – Formation of Kerala State and Modern Developments!
The princely states of Travancore & Cochin united to form Travancore Cochin in 1949 following Indian independence in 1947. As part of the States Reorganisation Act, Travancore-Cochin, the Malabar district & Kasaragod taluk were combined to form Kerala on November 1, 1956 with Thiruvananthapuram serving as its capital.
E. M. S. Namboodiripad led Kerala’s first democratically elected communist government in 1957 bringing about groundbreaking land reforms & public education programs that significantly improved social indicators.
Timeline Table of Important Events in Kerala History!
| Year/Period | Event/Fact |
| 3000 BCE | Kerala famous as a spice exporter |
| Early centuries CE | Rise of the Chera dynasty |
| 800–1102 CE | Kulasekhara dynasty rules Kerala |
| 1498 | Vasco da Gama arrives at Calicut |
| 1505 | Portuguese establish trade dominance |
| 1663 | Dutch capture Kochi |
| 1753–1805 | Reign of Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja |
| 1924 | Vaikom Satyagraha |
| 1936 | Temple Entry Proclamation in Travancore |
| 1947 | India gains independence |
| 1956 | Formation of Kerala state |
| 1957 | First communist government elected in Kerala |
Interesting Facts About Kerala History!
- AD 52 – St. Thomas the Apostle founded one of the world’s oldest Christian communities in Kerala.
- 68 CE – Jewish communities are believed to have migrated to Kerala.
- 825 CE – The beginning of the Malayalam calendar (Kollam Era).
- 1350–1632 CE – The Kerala School of Mathematics and Astronomy thrived, with Madhava of Sangamagrama pioneering ideas like calculus.
- 1573 CE – The Portuguese established India’s first printing press in Kochi.
- 1741 CE – Travancore defeated the Dutch at Colachel, an early Indian victory over Europe.
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Conclusion
The history of Kerala is a rich tapestry woven with ancient maritime trade, powerful dynasties, vibrant culture, foreign incursions, social reforms, and political evolution. Kerala’s uniqueness lies in its blend of cultural diversity, progressive social movements, and democratic governance that have shaped it to be one of the most literate and socially advanced states in India today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who founded Kerala first?
A:
In mythology Kerala was founded by Lord Parasurama who reclaimed it from the sea. In history the Cheras were the first notable dynasty as evidenced by inscriptions dating back to the third century BCE.
Q: What was the old name of Kerala?
A:
The old name of Kerala was ‘Chera Nadu’ or ‘Keralaputra’ as mentioned in ancient Indian & foreign records including Ashoka’s orders.
Q: Who landed first in Kerala?
A:
Among the first legendary visitors was the apostle St. Thomas who arrived in AD 52 while historical records indicate early commercial contact with Sumerians, Phoenicians & Greeks.
Q: What is the Kerala Museum of History and Heritage?
A:
The Kerala Museum of History & Heritage located in Kochi shows Kerala’s past from prehistory to modern times through dioramas, paintings & rare artifacts, offering comprehensive insight into Kerala’s socio cultural evolution.
Q: What is the history of Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple?
A:
The Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is one of the oldest & richest Hindu temples in India with references dating back to the early centuries CE. It has witnessed historical patronage from Chera, Travancore & colonial rulers & its vaults gained global attention for their immense treasures.
Q: Why is Kerala so green?
A:
Kerala’s greenery is due to its unique geography, abundant rainfall courtesy of the southwest monsoon, dense forests, fertile plains & a strong tradition of land stewardship.
Q: Who is the father of Kerala?
A:
Adi Shankara born in Kalady in the 8th century CE & it is widely revered as the philosophical father of Kerala for his role in reviving Hinduism & unifying philosophical traditions.
Q: What is Kerala’s nickname?
A:
Kerala is famously nicknamed ‘God’s Own Country’ a term popularized in recent decades to reflect its natural beauty & cultural richness.
Q: What is Kerala famous for?
A:
Kerala is known for its spice trade, classical art forms, Ayurveda, temple festivals, religious harmony, scenic backwaters, literacy & progressive social achievements.
Q: What is Kerala’s famous food?
A:
Kerala’s cuisine is famous for dishes like appam, puttu, sadya, Kerala fish curry & Malabar biryani with liberal use of coconut & spices reflecting the land’s abundance.
Q: What is the history of Christianity in Kerala?
A:
St. Thomas the Apostle is credited with bringing Christianity to Kerala in AD 52, establishing some of the world’s oldest Christian communities.