"Dutch Ceylon" refers to the period when the Dutch East India Company controlled parts of Sri Lanka from the mid-17th century to the late 18th century. The Dutch aimed to dominate the lucrative spice trade and established several coastal forts and trading posts, particularly in the western and southern regions of the island. During their rule, the Dutch introduced new agricultural practices and crops, such as coffee and sugar, which significantly impacted the local economy. The Dutch also left a lasting cultural influence, evident in the architecture and place names that can still be found in Sri Lanka today.