According to Babad Dalem, a breakdown in royal authority following a palace coup sometimes in the 16th century resulted in regional lords attaining greater autonomy. While the royal family managed to resumed control in Klungkung, they were in no position to assert any lost authority over the now-independent rajahs. However, the rajah of Klungkung is still considered senior in rank to other rajahs.

The arrival of European ships on Balinese ports introduced the isolated island to global trade. Especially the Dutch, missions to establish