The correct answer is: d) All of the above
The Sethupatis of Ramanathapuram were a Hindu dynasty that ruled the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu from the 16th to the 19th centuries. They were known for their resistance against the British, their patronage of temples, and their maritime trade.
The Sethupatis were originally a family of merchants who rose to power in the 16th century. They were initially vassals of the Nayak rulers of Madurai, but they gradually asserted their independence. In the 17th century, the Sethupatis came into conflict with the British East India Company. The British were trying to establish a monopoly on trade in the region, and the Sethupatis resisted their efforts. The conflict between the British and the Sethupatis lasted for over a century, and it culminated in the Battle of Ramanathapuram in 1799. The British won the battle, and the Sethupatis were forced to cede their territory to the British.
Despite their defeat, the Sethupatis continued to play an important role in the history of Tamil Nadu. They were patrons of many temples in the region, and they also engaged in maritime trade. The Sethupatis were a powerful and influential dynasty, and they left a lasting legacy on the history of Tamil Nadu.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Resistance against the British: The Sethupatis were known for their resistance against the British East India Company. They fought against the British for over a century, and they only surrendered after the Battle of Ramanathapuram in 1799.
- Patronage of temples: The Sethupatis were patrons of many temples in the region. They built and renovated temples, and they also donated money to temples.
- Maritime trade: The Sethupatis were involved in maritime trade. They had a fleet of ships, and they traded with other countries in the region.