Download Indian Influence in South Asia

Indian Influence in South Asia
Key Points:
 Culture spread by Indian Merchants as part of vibrant South Indian trade

Evidence? Hinduism and Buddhism throughout region, Sanskrit writings, and
Indian forms of social organization.

Vigorous trade of Indian valuables. SE Asian locals used the wealth to
consolidate their political influence.

Kingship the primary principal organization (took titles such as Raj, and
Maharaja, similar to Caesar-Czar diffusion)

Embraced classical Hindu literature.
State samples:
 Funan: Cambodia and Vietnam capital at Oc Eo. Dominated trade on the
Isthmus of Kra. Controlled maritime trade between India and China (think
Panama Canal). Used wealth for valuable internal improvements. Official
business conducted in Sanskrit and embraced Hindu deities. Overrun by the
Khmers and Chams.

Srivijaya: based in Sumatra. Used their powerful Navy to control SE Asian
commerce, taxed vessels traveling throughout region. Overrun by the Chola
kingdom.

Angkor: Cambodia the wonderful Hindu monuments attest to Hindu influence.
Angkor Thom was the capital and spiritual center. A “mini” Hindu India was
created here.

Khmers: also in Cambodia a Buddhist state of the 12th and 13th centuries. Angkor
Wat the breathtaking Buddhist center. Abandoned the site in the 15th century
after Thai invasions.

Melaka: a Muslim area founded by Paramesvara a rebellious prince from
Sumatra. Located near modern Singapore this state had huge advantages in
commerce and trade. Possessed a substantial navy and patrolled the regions sea
lanes.