Last Stand in Kandy Kindle Edition by Miliani Philip Sansoni (Author)
“Last Stand in Kandy” discusses the annexation by the British of the Kingdom of Kandy, after centuries of its’ stubborn resistance to foreign powers. It also covers the period before annexation, full of negotiations, intrigue and finally open warfare. The book also deals with the advent of Western colonisation and discusses the rivalry between the Dutch, the British and the French, insofar as it affected Sri Lanka.
While the British, after their success in 1796, sought to establish an efficient administration in Sri Lanka, they faced an almost impossible task in reconciling the inhabitants of the Kingdom to their rule. When faced with disturbances and uprisings, their usual reaction was to call in their army. The severity of the measures taken were frequently excessive.
The units involved, and some of the officers in them, are examined including the 19th Regiment of Foot which was in the Island for close to 23 years and participated in many campaigns, in Sri Lanka and In South India. Their service was arduous and distressing, both for them and their opponents. Other issues cover the fate of the last King of Kandy, the conspiracies against him, and virulent clashes between the judicial and military establishments of the British which mostly involved obstructive behaviour and the trading of insults.
Fior further information and how to order copies, contact Philip Sansoni: < philip.sansoni@iinet.nmet.au >
