In the ancient times, Kerala was also popular to the Phoenicians who knew Kerala as a region rich in spices, such as pepper, cardamom and ginger. They also came to Kerala for sandalwood and ivory. Cranganore or Muziris was known as an important port for trade with the Mediterranean region. According to the historical records, the first inhabitants of Kerala were the Pulayas, Vetas and Kuruvas. The Chera dynasty ruled over Kerala during the time of the Mauryas in North India. The Brahmins or Namboothiris dominated Kerala by the 10th century. Other communities present in Kerala were Christian and Muslim traders and Jews.
Vasco da Gama's arrival in 1498 opened a new chapter in the history of Kerala as the era of European conquest began. Conflict between the Portuguese, Dutch and later the English dominated the years of colonial trade. The British dominance over Kerala was complete by the 1800's after the defeat of Tipu Sultan and the local rulers of Kerala. The first democratically elected communist government came to power in 1957 in Kerala and the state has not looked back since. Today it is the most educated state of the country enjoying a literacy rate of 100%.
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