The Maldivian Civilisation

 A Civilisation is a society which has a high level of culture. The culture can be seen in the peoples’ social and political organization. A civilisation would also be marked by scientific, artistic and material progress.

 A society develops through many stages.Civilisation is the highest level of the development of a society. For any culture to become a civilisation, certain characteristics or features must be present. These features are:

1. invention of writing

2. metal working

3. standard units of weights and measures

4. mathematics

5. architecture

6. long-distance trade

7. specialised workmen in industry and trade

8. surplus production of food and other materials

9. wheeled carts

We say that the Maldivians have a distinct civilisation because all the above conditions are met. For example:

Invention of Writing – The early Maldivians developed their own alphabet called Eveyla Akuru.This was the first alphabet of the Maldivians and was used before 1238M.Between 1238 and 1780, an alphabet called Dhives Akuru was also used.The alphabet that we use today began to be used in the early 18th century.

Metal work – Maldivians were skilful in the craft of metalwork (kanburuverikan).Theyused iron, copper, brass and other alloys to make boatbuilding tools and household items.These skilful craftsmen also made the first minted coins which were used in Maldives.

Standard units of measurement - In the past Maldivians used standard units of measurement for weight (e.g. raathaa), volume, (e.g. laahi, naalhi) and length (e.g. gazu, muh, kaivah, angoo).

Mathematics – The Maldivian counting system is based on 12 numerals, e.g. Anaa (6 laaris), Hatharuvana (24 or 25 laaris) etc.It is a base-12 system.Some consider base-12 system to be better than base-10 (decimal) system.