Question

Which group of people first came to Kerala primarily as traders?

• A. Chinese, Portuguese, and Dutch
• B. Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians
• C. Arabs, Jews, and Christians
• D. Persians, Ottomans, and Mughals

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Arabs, Jews, and Christians

Early Trade and Economic Development in Kerala

• The history of Kerala's economic engagement with the outside world is deeply rooted in its maritime trade, particularly the spice trade.
• Its strategic location on the ancient East-West maritime routes made it a coveted destination for traders from various parts of the world.
• The fertile lands of Kerala produced highly sought-after spices like pepper (black gold), cardamom, ginger, and turmeric, which were crucial for food preservation, medicine, and luxury in Europe and the Middle East.

Arrival of Trading Communities

• Arabs:
  • Arab traders had established significant commercial ties with the Malabar Coast even before the advent of Islam.
  • Their presence intensified after the 7th century CE, leading to their dominance over the spice trade routes between Kerala, the Middle East, and Europe for centuries.
  • The long-standing presence of Arab traders led to the formation of the Mappila (Muslim) community in Kerala through intermarriage and conversion.
  • Key trading ports for Arabs included Kozhikode (Calicut), Kollam (Quilon), and Kodungallur (Cranganore).
• Jews:
  • The Jewish community in Kerala, often referred to as Cochin Jews or Malabar Jews, is one of the world's oldest Jewish diasporic groups, with a history dating back over a millennium.
  • They were primarily involved in trade, dealing in spices, textiles, and other commodities.
  • A significant historical document is the Jewish Copper Plate Grant of Bhaskara Ravi Varman (c. 1000 CE), which granted special rights and privileges to the Jewish merchant Joseph Rabban and his community, highlighting their esteemed position in society.
  • The Paradesi Synagogue in Mattancherry, Kochi, built in 1568, is a prominent testament to their enduring presence.
• Christians (Syrian Christians / St. Thomas Christians):
  • Christianity in Kerala is traditionally believed to have been introduced by St. Thomas the Apostle himself in 52 CE, making the Syrian Christian community one of the earliest Christian communities globally.
  • Early Christians in Kerala were actively involved in trade, leveraging the existing trade networks, especially in spices.
  • They also received royal patronage, as evidenced by the Tharisappally Copper Plates (9th century CE), which granted extensive rights and privileges to the Christian merchant community of Kollam, including autonomy over their trade activities and judicial matters.
  • Their connections with the Church of the East (Nestorian Church) in Persia further facilitated their engagement in international trade.

Impact on Kerala's Development

• The arrival and settlement of these diverse trading communities laid the foundation for Kerala's cosmopolitan culture and economic diversity.
• Their presence fostered early forms of globalization and cultural exchange, contributing to Kerala's unique societal fabric, often cited as a component of the 'Kerala Model' of development.
• The long history of peaceful coexistence and economic cooperation among these diverse groups is a hallmark of Kerala's societal development.