The
history of Tamil Nadu is very old and it is believed that human endeavour s
to inhabit this area began as early as 300, 000 years ago. It is also
suggested that the first Dravidians of Tamil country were part of the early
Indus Valley settlers and moved south during the advent of Aryans around
1500 BC. However, the recorded history goes back only to the 4th century BC.
There are references in the early Sangham literature to the social, economic
and cultural life of people. The proximity to the sea established the Tamil
Country on the maritime map of the world even before the dawn of Christian
era. The Tamils were bonded through trade links with ancient Egypt, Greece
and Rome.
History rewinds
Prior to the Christian era, the Cheras, Cholas and Pandias ruled Tamil
Country. This was the golden period of Tamil literature, the Sangham Age
that shadowed three centuries after Christ. The domains of these three
dynasties changed many times over the centuries. At times other dynasties
like Pallavas and Chalukyas came into power. All these dynasties engaged in
continual skirmishes; but their steady patronage of arts served the
expansion of Dravidian culture.
It is speculated that the early Dravidians were part of the Indus Valley
Civilisation. However, with the coming of the Aryans, the Dravidians were
pushed back into the deep south where they ultimately settled around 1500
BC. Excavations have revealed that the features of the people of the Indus
Valley Civilisation bore a marked resemblance to that of this region.
Bastion of legacy
Tamil Nadu is famed for its rich tradition of literature , music and dance
which are continuing to flourish today. It is one of the most industrialized
states in India. Tamil is the official language of Tamil Nadu (as well as
one of the official languages of India).
Tamil Nadu was carved from the old Madras State in the 1950s, when India
re-drew some state lines according to language. State politics continue to
have a lot to do with protecting and celebrating the Tamil (and Dravidian in
general) language and culture.
Tamil
Nadu History
