Maldives

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of the Maldives

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The Maldivian ethnic identity is a blend of the cultures of peoples who settled on the islands, reinforced by religion and language. The earliest settlers were probably from southern India. Indo-Eurupean speakers followed them from Sri Lanka in the fourth and fifth centuries BC. In the 12th century AD, sailors from East Africa and Arab countries came to the islands.

Related Topics:
Indo-Eurupean - Fourth - Fifth centuries BC - 12th century - Africa - Arab

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Originally Buddhists, Maldivians were converted to Sunni Islam in the mid-12th century. Islam is the official religion of the entire population. Strict adherence to Islamic precepts and close community relationships have helped keep crime low and under control.

Related Topics:
Sunni - Islam - Religion

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The official and common language is Divehi, an Indo-European language related to Sinhalese, the language of Sri Lanka. The written script is called Thaana and is written from right to left. English is used widely in commerce and increasingly as the medium of instruction in government schools.

Related Topics:
Sinhalese - English - Commerce - School

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Some social stratification exists on the islands. It is not rigid, since rank is based on varied factors, including occupation, wealth, Islamic virtue, and family ties. Members of the social elite are concentrated in Malé. Outside of the service industry, this is the only location where the foreign and domestic populations are likely to interact. The tourist resorts are not on islands where the natives live, and casual contacts between the two groups are discouraged.

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