2. Rejecting their central government after centuries of mistreatment, the United Suvadive Republic sought to break away from the Maldives before being forced to return by the British
Historically, the remote southern atolls of the Maldive Islands developed and existed in a state of near-total isolation and separation from the administrative capital of their country. Divided by dangerous waters, without even basic needs met, the southern atolls turned instead to British Sri Lanka and India for trade and provisions. Following the British withdraw from the Indian subcontinent, the central Malé government sought to reassert control and authority over their wayward southern possessions. Imposing unilateral controls and restrictions, including a land tax and poll tax, without representation and after centuries of inattention, the southern islands responded angrily.
Following the announcement of plans for a tax on boats, the southern atolls revolted. Declaring their independence on January 3, 1959, Addu Atoll, joined by Huvadhu Atoll and Fuvahmulah, banded together to promulgate the formation of the United Suvadive Republic. However, abandoned by the British, the Maldives responded with a violent campaign to suppress the separatists. Culminating in the Massacre of Thinadhoo, whereupon soldiers engaged in the systematic raising of the eponymous town on Huvadhu Atoll, on September 22, 1963, the British ordered, under threat of severe punishment, the immediate dissolution of the rebellious Republic and reconciliation with the central government in spite of its oppression.