Recorded in Maldivian history are the names of eighty-four Sultans and Sultanas who belonged to six dynasties. The Maley or Theemuge Dynasty lasted 235 years under the rule of twenty-six different sultans. The Hilali Dynasty ruled next for over a period of 170 years with twenty-nine rulers. During the Hilali period, Sultan Kalhu Mohammed invited the first foreign power to Maldives thus opening diplomatic relations with the world. Balmy trade winds brought prosperity to this independent country until the sixteenth century when the Portuguese took more than a passing interest.
History creates legendary heroes.
It is during this time of Portuguese threat that one of the greatest Maldivian heroes, Mohammed Thakurufaan, was born on the island of Utheem in the northern atoll of Thiladhummathi. For fifteen years the invaders tried to maintain control oven the islands. But the Maldives were scattered over seas that were often as dangerous as attacks by brave Maldivians waging daring warfare against the colonialist's. Today one can still hear songs and stories which tell of Mohammed Thakurufaan wiping out the entire Portuguese garrison. The great Mohammed's twelve years of peaceful reign was one of prosperity and reform.