Question 1

When did Sri Lanka gain independence from British rule?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka gained independence from British rule on February 4, 1948. It became a Dominion of the British Commonwealth before becoming a republic within the Commonwealth in 1972.

Question 2

How did Buddhism become a major influence in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa. It was brought by Mahinda, the son of Indian Emperor Ashoka, who converted the king and many citizens to Buddhism. This event laid the foundation for Buddhism to become the island's major religion and cultural influence.

Question 3

What is the historical timeline of Sri Lanka's history?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka has a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years. Key periods include the ancient period (543 BCE to 1232 CE) with the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa kingdoms, the colonial period beginning in 1505 with Portuguese, followed by Dutch and British rule, until independence in 1948. Sri Lanka became a republic in 1972 and underwent a civil war from 1983 to 2009.

Question 4

What were the main events during the Sri Lankan Civil War?

Accepted Answer

The Sri Lankan Civil War lasted from 1983 to 2009, primarily between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Key events include the Black July riots in 1983, the Indo-Sri Lanka Peace Accord in 1987, the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi in 1991, various military operations throughout the 1990s and 2000s, and the final defeat of the LTTE in May 2009.

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