INDEPENDENCE AND POST-COLONIAL

SRI LANKA
INTRODUCTION
Sri Lanka gained independence from British rule on February 4, 1948. The post-
colonial period has been marked by significant political, social, and economic
changes.

EARLY YEARS
The early years of independence were characterized by parliamentary democracy
under the leadership of Prime Minister D.S. Senanayake. The country was initially
called Ceylon.

1972 CONSTITUTION
In 1972, the country adopted a new constitution and changed its name to Sri Lanka.
The constitution established it as a republic.

ECONOMIC REFORMS
The late 20th century saw economic liberalization, which led to increased foreign
investment and economic growth.

ETHNIC TENSIONS
Ethnic tensions between the Sinhalese and Tamil communities escalated, leading to
the Sri Lankan Civil War.

CONCLUSION
The post-colonial period has been a time of both progress and challenges for Sri
Lanka, shaping its modern identity.