The Dutch in Ceylon: Cinnamon, Elephants, and Empire

In this episode, we explore the Dutch East India Company's colonial enterprise in Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka). We trace how the VOC seized control from the Portuguese in the 17th century, establishing a monopoly over cinnamon and other lucrative trade goods. We delve into the violent campaigns led by Governor Rijckloff van Goens to subdue the island's interior, including the kingdom of Kandy, and the heavy taxes imposed on local populations. We also discuss the role of elephants in warfare and trade, the introduction of the thombos land registration system, and the lasting impact of Dutch rule on Sri Lankan society, including the emergence of the Burgher community. This episode sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of European colonialism in Asia, revealing the brutal economics behind the spice trade. #VOC #Ceylon #DutchEastIndiaCompany #Cinnamon #RijckloffvanGoens #RajasinhaII #Kandy #Colombo #Elephants #Thombos #Colonialism #SpiceTrade #SriLanka #History #17thCentury #PortugueseEmpire #MughalEmpire #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo