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History of Chennai |
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Chennai which was formerly called Madras is the forth largest metropolitan cities in India and the capital of Tamil Nadu. The city is situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal. The Indian city of Chennai also happens to be the 36th largest metropolis in the world. The history of Chennai is long and interesting. The history of Chennai shows the transformation of ancient city ruled which went into the hands of several kings, underwent colonialism and evolved into a metropolis in the 20th century.
As the history of Chennai reads, the ancient name of the city was Madras Patnam and was positioned in Tondaimandalam. With its provincial capital as Kancheepuram, the city was under the rule of Tondaiman Ilam Tiraiyan in 2nd century A.D. It is believed that Apostle St. Thomas immigrated the country in the year 52 where he preached Jesus’ message in the city’s southwest part. There is a Catholic church and a small museum in the area where he lived and it is called 'Chennamalai'. The Chola Prince Ilam Killi also ruled the city. Bappaswami the first Pallava was the chieftain in 3rd century A.D. and later the Pallavas became independent rulers ruling Kancheepuram and adjoining areas. The Nayaks or chieftains appointed by the Vijaynagar rulers came into power.
According to the historical account of Chennai, Madras was conquered by Golkonda forces in 1646 which was supervised by General Mir Jumla. The Mughals took it over in 1687 and the region of Madraspatnam came under Delhi. The city progressed a lot under several governors in the period of Agency. Modern Chennai originated as a colonial city and was initially an artificial harbour and a major center for trade and commerce. The city was conquered by the Portuguese in 1522 which passed to the Dutch in 1612. The British conquered the place in the seventeenth century in 1626. They explored Pondicherry in 1637 as a site to grow a new settlement.
The Fort St George which was built during that period can still be seen. In 1746 The French captured Fort St George and Madras came under the power of General La Bourdonnais. In 1749, Madras was again taken over by the British. In 18th century, Madras was established as an English naval base as well as the administrative centre. Tipu Sultan fought with the British and dominated Madras. Madras became the capital of Madras Presidency. After India’s independence the legislative and administrative capital was entitled Tamil Nadu in the year 1968.
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