History of Dutch Rule in Sri Lanka

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to the history of Dutch rule in Sri Lanka.

Dutch East India Trade Company (VOC)

A trade company established in 1602 with powers to engage in trade, conquer areas, build fortresses, appoint governors, and rule the relevant areas.

Kandyan Kingdom

The last independent monarchy in Sri Lanka, which sought support from the Dutch to drive out the Portuguese.

Treaty of 1638

An agreement where the Dutch supported King Rajasinghe II to remove the Portuguese in exchange for control over cinnamon and other resources.

Exchanging ginger for chili

A Sinhala proverb illustrating the negative consequences of replacing one colonizer (Portuguese) with another (Dutch) in Sri Lanka.

Gerard Hulft

A Dutch General who played a significant role in Dutch military efforts during the conflicts with the Portuguese and later with the Kandyan Kingdom.

King Rajasinghe II

Kandyan king who collaborated with the Dutch to expel the Portuguese but later faced conflicts with them.

Diplomatic relationships

Formal communications and exchanges of gifts between the Kandyan Kingdom and the Dutch authorities.

Colonial administration

The system of governance implemented by the Dutch in Sri Lanka, characterized by the VOC's control and the establishment of a governor.

Cinnamon trade

A major economic activity controlled by the Dutch, which was a point of contention in their agreements with the Kandyan kings.

Portuguese rule

The control established by the Portuguese in the coastal areas of Sri Lanka before the arrival of the Dutch.