History of Karnataka
In ancient times, Karnataka was
called Karunadu, literally meaning elevated land.
¤ The Early Karnataka
The evidence of Maurayan dynasty in Karnataka is the Ashoka's rock
edicts found in the state. The great Chandragupta Maurya ruled the
state and adopted Jainism at Shravanabelagola. After him many other
dynasties like the Chalukyas, the Hoysalas and the Vijayanagars
ruled it. These dynasties added value to the cultural and spiritual
value of the state.
 At Aihole in
Karanataka, the Chalukyas constructed the early Hindu temples in
India. These temples are regarded as the architectural wonders.
Similarly, the Hoysala's who ruled from the 11th to the 13th
century, built more than 150 temples having excellent
architecture.
¤ Karnataka Under Vijayanagar Empire
The most celebrated dynasty that ruled Karnataka is the Vijayanagar
dynasty. The Vijyanagar kings were the greatest of all medieval
Hindu empires and were lovers of fine arts. They have contributed a
lot to the culture and traditions of the state. Many foreign
visitors who came to this place during this period have described
it as one of the most prosperous states.
¤ The Fall of Vijayanagar Empire
The grand Vijayanagar dynasty disintegrated with its capital at
Hampi after the attack of the Deccan Sultan in 1565 A.D. Therefore,
Bijapur was established as the capital and many monuments were
build around the city. It was ruled by the Bahmani Shahis and the
Adilshahis, who have contributed a lot to the architecture, art and
the spread of Islam in the state.
¤ The Muslim Domination and The British
Control
Later, the state was ruled by Hyder Ali and his brave son Tipu
Sultan. They were responsible for the expansion of the Mysore
kingdom. Tipu was a great scholar and lover of literature. He was a
good administrator and offered expensive gifts to the Hindu
temples. Tipu Sultan was also known as "Tiger of Karnataka", since
he fought bravely with the British and never allowed them to
overpower Mysore . He was killed in 1799 A.D. and thus the throne
of Mysore went into the hands of Wodeyar's. In the beginning of the
19th century, entire Karnataka came under the control of the
British.
¤ Karnataka Post-Independence
After India's Independence, the state of Mysore was governed by the
Maharaja of Mysore, who was appointed by Independent India. But
later, on November 1, 1973, the integrated state was renamed as
Karnataka.
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