Portuguese Influence in Sri Lanka

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Questions and Answers

What characteristic defines traditional technologies in Sri Lanka?

They are technologies borrowed from other cultures.

They are universal technologies used worldwide.

They are modern technologies developed in recent years.

They are unique technologies that evolved specifically in Sri Lanka. (correct)

What is the primary purpose of the ancient tanks and anicuts constructed in Sri Lanka?

To facilitate transportation across regions.

To provide fishery resources for trade.

To obtain water for agricultural activities. (correct)

To serve as public recreational areas.

What aspect of ancient Lankans' architectural creations showcases their cultural values?

Their reliance on foreign architectural styles.

Their preference for modern materials and techniques.

Their adaptation to the local environment and culture. (correct)

Their uniform design across all regions.

How long is the continuously recorded history of Sri Lanka?

Around 2500 years Signup and view all the answers

Which type of water management infrastructure was primarily built by ancient Sri Lankans?

Tanks and anicuts tailored for local conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What findings can be made by studying the technologies of ancient Lankans?

They reflect their day-to-day life challenges and solutions. Signup and view all the answers

Ancient Lankans built various constructions that served what primary function?

To address practical issues in their environment. Signup and view all the answers

Where were the earliest tanks and anicuts primarily constructed?

In dry zones for agricultural irrigation. Signup and view all the answers

Why did people in ancient times begin constructing tanks, canals, and dams?

To store water for consumption and agriculture during the dry season. Signup and view all the answers

What characterized the land chosen by early settlers for establishing settlements?

It was primarily flat and highly fertile. Signup and view all the answers

Which groups of people are mentioned as having arrived and settled in this country around the 6th century BC?

Groups from India. Signup and view all the answers

During which time period did the rapid construction of bigger tanks begin under royal patronage?

By the 3rd century BC. Signup and view all the answers

What is mentioned as a major historical source for information on tank construction during King Pandukabhaya's reign?

Mahawamsa. Signup and view all the answers

What type of technologies did ancient Lankans excel in according to the content?

Water technologies. Signup and view all the answers

What geographic region of the country was preferred by early settlers for agricultural activities?

The dry zone. Signup and view all the answers

What primary need did the construction of tanks aim to address for ancient societies?

To store water during the dry season. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the outer spill in the construction of a dam?

To allow excess water to flow out Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a makeshift dam from a permanent dam?

Permanent dams are designed to last long Signup and view all the answers

What is an anicut primarily used for?

To divert water to nearby paddy fields Signup and view all the answers

What materials were commonly used in constructing makeshift dams?

Branches of trees, mud, and sand Signup and view all the answers

Why did makeshift dams frequently get destroyed?

The next rainy season would cause water overflow Signup and view all the answers

Which feature is common to both permanent and makeshift dams?

They both block the flow of water Signup and view all the answers

What is typically included in the design of a dam to manage excessive water levels?

Spills for letting excess water out Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of a bund constructed across a stream or river?

It is constructed to retain water Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of constructing Kiribath?

To protect images from environmental elements Signup and view all the answers

Which image houses are considered excellent works of the Gedige tradition?

Thuparama, Lankathilaka, and Thivanka Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the Gedige tradition from the Gandhakuti tradition?

Construction of roofs made from bricks or stone Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant feature of cave temples built during the Polonnaruwa period?

The main image was constructed in a reclining position Signup and view all the answers

During which period did significant developments occur in the construction of image houses?

Polonnaruwa period Signup and view all the answers

What role did Siva Devala I have during the Polonnaruwa Kingdom?

A patron of Hindu devalas Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the Gandhakuti tradition?

The image chamber was referred to as the chamber house. Signup and view all the answers

What was a notable element of temple monasteries during the Polonnaruwa period?

Many additional buildings fulfilling various needs Signup and view all the answers

What motivated King Karalliyadde Bandara to befriend the Portuguese?

To counter the threats from the Seethawaka rulers Signup and view all the answers

Who became king of the Kandyan kingdom in 1952 AD?

Wimaladharmasooriya I Signup and view all the answers

What was the response of King Rajasinghe I to Weerasundara Bandara's claim to the throne?

He captured the throne and aimed to establish puppet rule Signup and view all the answers

How did the elite in Kandy react to King Karalliyadde Bandara's alliance with the Portuguese?

They were disappointed that he befriended foreigners Signup and view all the answers

What significant action did Konappu Bandara take after fleeing to the Portuguese?

He became loyal to the Portuguese and was baptized Signup and view all the answers

What change did King Wimaladharmasooriya I's rise to power bring about?

It prevented the establishment of a rule loyal to the Portuguese Signup and view all the answers

Which religious practice did Seethawaka Rajasinghe embrace during his reign?

Sivaism Signup and view all the answers

What event followed Weerasundara Bandara's death that changed leadership in the Kandyan kingdom?

Konappu Bandara seized power Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Capture of Coastal Areas of Sri Lanka by the Portuguese

Portuguese attention on Sri Lanka began amid their expansion in the Indian Ocean.
They aimed to establish trade monopolies and convert locals to Christianity.

Political, Economic and Cultural Activities of the Portuguese

Established coastal colonies, leading to significant political influence over local kingdoms.
Engaged in trade, importing spices and other goods, impacting local economies.
Introduced Christian missionary activities, resulting in cultural exchanges and conflicts.

Traditional Technologies and Arts of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a recorded history of approximately 2,500 years, showcasing advancements in various technologies.
Traditional technologies are unique to the region and informed by environmental and cultural contexts.

Water Technology

Ancient Lankans developed vital water management systems, including tanks, canals, and anicuts.
Initial tank constructions started before the Christ era, especially in the dry zone for agricultural needs.
By the 3rd century BC, the construction of larger tanks gained momentum under royal patronage, enhancing irrigation capabilities.

Construction Techniques

Anicuts were essential structures for managing water flow to agricultural land.
Permanent dams were constructed to withstand seasonal changes, contrasting with temporary makeshift dams.

Architectural Developments

Image house construction included several traditions, evolving from natural caves to sophisticated brick and stone structures.
The Gandhakuti and Gedige traditions marked significant advancements in image house architecture.

Cave Temples and Temple Monasteries

Natural caves were first used as Bhikkus' residences, leading to the construction of elaborate temple complexes.
Cave temples featured reclining Buddha images and served spiritual and communal needs.

Political Dynamics of the Kandyan Kingdom

King Jayaweera Bandara's connections with the Portuguese were short-lived, leading to shifts in power among local rulers.
King Karalliyadde Bandara aligned with the Portuguese to combat local threats, causing discontent among the elite in Kandy.

Key Transition of Power

King Rajasinghe I captured the Kandyan throne circa 1580 AD, leading to tensions with local factions and the Portuguese.
Prince Konappu Bandara, baptized by the Portuguese, later opposed them, shifting loyalties often dictated by political necessity.

Notable Monarchs of the Kandyan Kingdom

Wimaladharmasooriya I (1592-1604 AD) represented a turning point, deterring Portuguese influence and aiming for independence.
He faced challenges from the Seethawaka kingdom, marked by cultural and religious tensions.

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Description

Explore the significant impact of the Portuguese on Sri Lanka's coastal areas, politics, economy, and culture. This quiz covers their trade monopolies, missionary activities, and advancements in local technologies. Test your knowledge on how these factors shaped the island's history.