Ceylon Achieves Independence from Britain
February 4th, 1948
February 4th, 1948

How Long Ago?
77 years, 1 month, 11 days ago
Location
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Category
Politics & Government
People
- D.S. Senanayake
- Henry Monck-Mason Moore
Links & References
Tags
Ceylon Achieves Independence from Britain
Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka, declared its independence from British rule. The independence ceremony took place in Colombo, featuring notable leaders, including D.S. Senanayake, who became the first Prime Minister. This shift was part of a broader wave of decolonization across Asia following World War II. The new nation joined the British Commonwealth, marking an important transition in governance and national identity.
Ceylon was under British rule since 1815.
D.S. Senanayake became the first Prime Minister.
Sri Lanka joined the British Commonwealth after independence.
The independence movement gained momentum during WWII.
What Happened?
Ceylon, located in the Indian Ocean, underwent significant changes during the mid-20th century as decolonization movements gained momentum across Asia. The island had been a British crown colony since 1815, and the struggle for independence intensified during World War II, alongside greater political awareness among the residents. In this context, the Ceylon National Congress formed in 1919 and became a crucial player in advocating for self-rule and greater autonomy. The post-war era brought about a series of constitutional reforms, culminating in the passage of the Ceylon Independence Act by the British Parliament in 1947. The formal declaration of independence on February 4, 1948 marked a watershed moment for the island. The ceremony took place in the capital city, Colombo, attended by dignitaries from the British Commonwealth, including the last Governor-General, Henry Monck-Mason Moore. D.S. Senanayake, a prominent leader of the independence movement, was sworn in as the first Prime Minister of the newly sovereign state, instilling hope for self-determination and governance.
Why Does it Matter?
The independence of Ceylon was part of a larger trend of decolonization that reshaped political landscapes across Asia and Africa following the Second World War. This moment is significant as it not only freed the country from colonial rule but also set a precedent for other nations seeking autonomy. It facilitated a sense of national identity and pride among Sri Lankans, and the journey towards nation-building and democratic governance commenced thereafter.
Discover More Historic Events from February 4th
Mass Shooting at Adult Education Centre in Örebro
Ten people were killed in a mass shooting at an adult education centre in Örebro, Sweden. The tragic incident unfolded during a routine class, leading to widespread panic and chaos. The shooter was apprehended shortly after, and authorities began an investigation into the motives behind this shocking act of violence. Eyewitnesses reported feelings of fear and confusion as the shooting took place.
Continue ReadingMacau Casinos Close Amid COVID-19 Concerns
All casinos in Macau were temporarily closed for 15 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision was made by the Macau government as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of the virus. This marked a significant disruption to the gaming industry in the region, which is highly reliant on gambling revenue. The casinos, major contributors to the local economy, took measures to protect the health and safety of employees and visitors.
Continue ReadingTransAsia Airways Flight 235 Crashes into River
TransAsia Airways Flight 235, carrying 58 people, was on a routine flight from Taipei to Kinmen when it tragically crashed into the Keelung River shortly after takeoff. The aircraft lost altitude and hit a bridge, leading to significant destruction. Emergency responders recovered multiple victims from the water, resulting in the loss of 43 lives. The tragedy raised concerns regarding airline safety protocols and aircraft maintenance in the region.
Continue ReadingA Million Voices Against FARC Mobilization
A large-scale civic mobilization took place in Colombia, uniting citizens against the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). On this day, millions took to the streets wearing white to protest against kidnappings and violence attributed to FARC. This peaceful demonstration transcended political affiliations and regional differences, as citizens rallied to voice their rejection of terrorism and support for peace. Major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali hosted significant gatherings, showcasing national solidarity in the face of a decades-long conflict that had plagued Colombia.
Continue ReadingFacebook is founded by Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin
Facebook was co-founded by Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin while they were students at Harvard University. Originally designed as a social network for Harvard students, the platform quickly expanded, gaining popularity across other Ivy League universities and eventually the public. The site allowed users to create profiles, connect with friends, and share information and photos, revolutionizing how individuals interacted online. The success of Facebook laid the groundwork for significant advancements in social media.
Continue ReadingYugoslavia Adopts New Constitution for Confederacy
A new constitution was adopted by the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, transitioning the nation into a loose confederacy between Montenegro and Serbia. This significant move reshaped the political landscape, aiming to establish a cooperative framework while addressing the rising nationalist sentiments. The constitutional changes reflected broader efforts to stabilize and define the relationship between the two republics within the federation, which had been strained in the years following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s.
Continue Reading