A Complete Illustrated History of Sri Lanka

A Complete Illustrated History of Sri Lanka by Anton Sebastian is an authoritative and visually rich exploration of the island’s long and complex past, presented in a deluxe hardback format that invites readers to immerse themselves in Sri Lanka’s story from its geological beginnings to modern times. Spanning approximately 696 pages and published by Vijitha Yapa Publications, this expansive volume brings together meticulous research, compelling narrative, and an exceptional collection of 487 photos, illustrations, maps and tables to chart the evolution of Sri Lanka’s people, cultures and civilizations. With the ISBN number 9789556651720, this book offers comprehensive coverage of key epochs, including the island’s geological origins, prehistory before Vijaya, early civilizations such as the Nāga people, the formation and growth of Sinhalese and Tamil communities, the influence of South Indian connections, and significant religious shifts from Hinduism to Buddhism. Sebastian also navigates the colonial era, the emergence and integration of Muslim communities, struggles toward independence, and the rise and fall of the LTTE and Tamil militancy. Written in a balanced and engaging style that bridges academic depth with wider readability, this reference-quality history serves both as an essential resource for scholars and a captivating read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s heritage and identity.