The Andaman Islands have been inhabited for at least 2,000 years, with archaeological evidence suggesting human presence may date back much further. The indigenous tribes of Andaman - including the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarwa, and Sentinelese - are believed to have migrated from Africa thousands of years ago, making them some of the oldest surviving cultures in the world.

These tribes lived in complete isolation for centuries, developing unique languages, customs, and survival techniques perfectly adapted to the island environment. Their traditional knowledge of the forests and seas remains unparalleled even today.

The British established their first permanent settlement in 1789 at Port Cornwallis (now Port Blair), but abandoned it due to disease. They returned in 1858 after the Indian Rebellion of 1857, establishing a penal colony for freedom fighters and political prisoners.

Key Colonial Developments:

• 1858: Penal colony established
• 1896-1906: Cellular Jail constructed
• World War II: Japanese occupation
• 1945: British reoccupied islands

The infamous Cellular Jail, completed in 1906, stands as a powerful reminder of India's struggle for independence. Its unique design with seven wings radiating from a central tower made it nearly impossible for prisoners to communicate. Many notable freedom fighters were imprisoned here under brutal conditions.

Today, the Cellular Jail is a National Memorial, with a light and sound show that brings its poignant history to life. The jail's museum preserves artifacts and documents that tell the stories of the prisoners who suffered here for India's freedom.

After India gained independence in 1947, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands became a Union Territory in 1956. The government focused on rehabilitation and development, settling refugees from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and mainland India.