History of Andaman Islands
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The history of the Andaman Islands is a fascinating blend of ancient tribal heritage, colonial struggles, maritime significance, and cultural evolution, spanning thousands of years and shaped by diverse influences. Long before foreign explorers discovered the archipelago, the Andaman Islands were home to indigenous tribes such as the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, and Sentinelese, who have lived in isolation for over 30,000 to 60,000 years, preserving some of the world’s oldest surviving cultures. Their lifestyle, language, and traditions remained untouched by external civilizations for centuries due to the islands’ remote location in the Bay of Bengal. The islands began appearing in historical records around the 9th century, when Arab and Southeast Asian traders mentioned them as mysterious lands inhabited by fierce tribes. In the 18th century, the British East India Company first surveyed the region, and by 1858, the British established a penal settlement in Port Blair to imprison Indian freedom fighters, marking a dark chapter in the islands’ history. The infamous Cellular Jail, also known as “Kala Pani,” became a symbol of colonial oppression, where numerous revolutionaries endured harsh conditions during India’s struggle for independence. During World War II, the Andaman Islands briefly came under Japanese occupation, further shaping their wartime legacy. After India gained independence in 1947, the islands officially became a part of the Indian Union, and Port Blair grew into a major administrative and cultural hub. Over time, the Andaman Islands transformed from isolated tribal lands and colonial prisons into a thriving tourist destination renowned for its natural beauty, biodiversity, and historical significance. Despite modern development, the islands still preserve their unique tribal heritage, ancient forests, and remnants of colonial era structures. Today, the history of Andaman stands as a powerful reminder of resilience, cultural diversity, and the enduring spirit of survival that continues to define the archipelago.
