Tamil Nadu is one of India's wealthiest states, boasting a rich history, imperial power, cultural artefacts, and literature. The region was once referred to as 'Madrasi' by people living north of the Vindhyas. The English East India Company created the Madras presidency, which covered over 362,000 square kilometres and a population of 30 million between 1870 and 1920.
The Madras presidency was an artificial administrative construct that consisted of various regions, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Lakshadweep, Karnataka, and Telangana. It was only after Potti Sriramulu's death in 1947 that the presidency broke up, and the present state of Tamil Nadu came into existence.
Archaeological excavations at Attirampakkan near Chennai have provided evidence of Hominids dating back over 170,000 years. The region has a long history, with three major monarchical dynasties – the Cholas, Pandyas, and Cheras – ruling the area over the last 3,000 years.
The Kalabhras, a powerful foe, defeated the ancient triumvirate between the 3rd and 6th centuries. However, their existence is still debated among scholars. The Kalabhras were eventually destroyed, and the Cholas emerged as the pre-eminent power under Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century.
The Cholas conquered Maldives, Sri Lanka, and neighbouring kingdoms, and their empire extended to Kalinga and Bengal. However, the Chola empire came close to crumbling due to Chalukyan interference and palace intrigues. Kulottunga I restored Cola power and extended diplomatic relations across India and to China.
By the middle of the 13th century, the Pandyas were back in control over the Tamil heartland. However, a new power emerged in Delhi, and Sultan Alauddin Khilji dispatched his army under Malik Kafur, who conquered Ma'abar or medieval Tamil Nadu.
