Rakhine State: A History of Golden Ages, Colonial Borders, and Modern Insurgency

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Once a powerful maritime kingdom, Rakhine State is now the site of a profound shift in power. As the Arakan Army gains control over nearly the entire region, the state’s complex history of independence, British colonial rule, and ethnic tension continues to shape its uncertain, volatile future in modern Myanmar.

Rakhine State, formerly known as Arakan, occupies a strategic position on Myanmar’s western coast. Its history is defined by distinct eras, including the classical Waithali kingdom and the golden age of Mrauk U, which flourished as a maritime trade hub until its decline in the 18th century. In 1784, the Konbaung dynasty of Burma invaded, leading to the eventual annexation of the region by the British East India Company in 1826. This colonial integration placed Rakhine within the broader framework of British India, setting the stage for its eventual inclusion in the independent Union of Burma in 1948.

The modern political landscape of Rakhine is marked by intense conflict and a struggle for autonomy. Since the 2021 military coup, the Arakan Army has significantly expanded its influence, moving from controlling roughly 75% of townships in 2021 to de facto authority over approximately 90% of the state by November 2025. This rapid consolidation of power has effectively sidelined the central military junta, which now retains control over only a few key townships, such as Sittwe and Kyaukpyu.

Governance in Rakhine remains a point of deep contention. While the Arakan Army has begun establishing local administrative structures, the long-term political goals of the group—whether they seek full independence or a new form of autonomy—remain unclear. This uncertainty is compounded by the state’s diverse ethnic makeup and a history of communal violence, particularly involving the Rohingya population. As the region navigates this transition, the legacy of its past kingdoms and its recent history of political repression continue to influence the aspirations of the Rakhine people.

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