The Andaman Islands
From 1858 until 1945, explains Frances Stewart, the Andaman Islands served as a penal colony for the British Empire. The islands were also valued for their good natural harbours. During the Second World War the Andamans were captured by the Japanese.
In the Bay of Bengal lie the Andamans, mentioned as far back as the ninth century by an Arab historian. Marco Polo sailed close by their shores in 1290 but it is doubtful if he ever landed or saw any nf the inhabitants for his description of the Andamanese as 'a most brutish race having heads resembling those of the canine species' is, of course, totally inaccurate as is his remark that they 'eat anyone not being of their own nation'. The islanders never were cannibals, nor have they ever used poisoned arrows as some travellers have stated, but they are considered by many to be amongst the most primitive people in the world.
To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5.
Start my trial subscription now
If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.
Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.
