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Sumatra is the largest island in the country of Indonesia. This is in the sixth position among other islands in respect of its area in the whole world. Sumatra has a very interesting history, tradition and rich culture of its own. The history of this important part of Indonesia dates back as far as almost seventh century. From the ancient time it had been a very important sea port and had considerable share in sea trade at that time also. The name Sumatra mean an island of gold that indicates towards its gold trading that started from the ancient time.
Sumatra had been a kingdom of several rulers. In the ancient time Srivijaya and Samudra kings ruled here. Later, Singhasari and Majapahit kingdom ruled in Sumatra. As a result of several of these kings and rulers many religion found a way to this island. Among these there was the influence of both Indian and Buddhist religion and later Islam found its way to the religion map of Sumatra.
Geographically Indonesia is situated in such a location where lots of volcanic activities can be observed. Sumatra is geologically very active. As a result, this island has been for many a time the unfortunate target of the devastating earthquakes and tsunamis. But there are positive sides of this geographical location as well for Sumatra. Many beautiful natural sceneries can be found in this island as a result of volcanic activities. Moreover, fertile and arable plains have also been developed in this island along with a number of coal and gold mines and all these together strengthens Sumatra's economy.
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