Sangam Age Tamil Civilization
c. 300 BCE – 300 CE
Overview
Classical Tamil literature, trade, and early political systems.
Sangam Age Tamil Civilization
Classical Tamil civilization defined by Sangam literature (Ettuthokai, Pattuppattu) and the Muvendar political system -- three crowned kings: Chera (western hills/Kerala), Chola (Kaveri delta), and Pandya (Madurai-Vaigai). Fluid political zones with overlapping influence, chieftaincies, and warfare.
Territory Phases
Chera (Sangam)300 BCE – 300 CE
Chera kingdom of the Sangam age. Centered on the western hills and Malabar coast (modern Kerala). Known for spice trade with the Roman world via the port of Muziris. Capital traditionally at Vanji (Karur or Tiruvanchikulam).
Chola (Sangam)300 BCE – 300 CE
Chola kingdom of the Sangam age. Centered on the Kaveri delta in central Tamil Nadu. Capital at Uraiyur, with the port city of Puhar (Kaveripattinam) as a major trade hub. Celebrated in Sangam poetry for military prowess and cultural patronage.
Pandya (Sangam)300 BCE – 300 CE
Pandya kingdom of the Sangam age. Centered on southern Tamil Nadu around Madurai. Patrons of the legendary Sangam literary assemblies. Traded pearls from Korkai and maintained diplomatic contacts with the Roman world.
Sources
- Seshat/Cliopatria
- Champakalakshmi, R. (1996) Trade, Ideology and Urbanization
- Zvelebil, K. (1973) The Smile of Murugan