4. Attempting to survive the process of decolonization, Maldives nevertheless proclaimed itself a republic just three years later and abolished the crown Muhammad Fareed Didi sought to cling onto
Comprising almost twelve hundred islands, the Maldives, situated off the coast of the Indian subcontinent, held great strategic importance throughout history. Located on the major marine routes of the Indian Ocean, from the 16th century the Portuguese, Dutch, and French all vied for control over the islands until, in the 19th century, the British proclaimed a protectorate over the territory. Gaining independence from the United Kingdom on July 26, 1965, in line with broader British policy of decolonization, Muhammad Fareed Didi sought to maintain his authority and transitioned his title from that of Sultan to King.
However, with the political mood of the new nation aligned against the throne, on November 15, 1967, the Maldivian parliament voted forty to four against the continuation of a constitutional monarchy and in favor of a republic. Holding a referendum on the matter on March 1, 1968, an overwhelming 93.34 percent agreed with the parliament and supported a republic. Formally declared later that year on November 11, the monarchy was abolished, ending the eight-hundred-and-fifty-three-years-old system of government, and replaced by a presidential system. Although enduring a prolonged and violent dictatorship, today the Maldives has finally become the republic envisioned half a century ago.
