Who ruled Sri Lanka before independence?

As an expert in historical studies, I have a deep understanding of the various periods that have shaped the world we know today. One of the fascinating regions that has undergone significant transformations is Sri Lanka, a country with a rich and complex history. Before Sri Lanka gained its independence, it was under the rule of various powers, with the British being the last colonial power to govern the island before it became an independent nation. The British rule over Sri Lanka, known as British Ceylon, is a significant chapter in the country's history. It began in 1815 with the annexation of the Kandyan Kingdom, which marked the end of over 2300 years of Sinhalese monarchy rule on the island. The Kandyan Kingdom was the last independent monarchy of Sri Lanka, and its defeat by the British concluded a long era of native rule. The British influence was profound and had lasting effects on the island's culture, economy, and administration. They introduced new systems of governance, education, and legal frameworks, which have had a lasting impact on the country's development. The British also established the Ceylon Civil Service, which was a model for the administrative systems in other British colonies. During the British rule, Sri Lanka, then known as Ceylon, became an important producer of ceylon tea, which is still renowned worldwide for its quality. The British also developed the country's infrastructure, including railways and roads, which facilitated the movement of goods and people across the island. However, the journey towards independence was not without its challenges. The Sri Lankan nationalist movement grew stronger in the early 20th century, with increasing calls for self-governance and greater autonomy. The Donoughmore Commission of 1928 and the Soulbury Commission of 1944 were significant steps towards self-rule, as they led to the introduction of more representative and democratic forms of government. The country gained independence from Britain on February 4, 1948, and was known as the Dominion of Ceylon. This marked a new era for the island, as it embarked on a path of self-determination and nation-building. The transition to independence was largely peaceful, but it was followed by a period of political and social changes as the country sought to define its identity and establish its place in the world. In conclusion, the period of British rule in Sri Lanka was a transformative time that reshaped the island in many ways. The end of the Kandyan Kingdom and the introduction of British governance brought about significant changes that have influenced the country's trajectory to this day. The struggle for independence and the eventual achievement of it in 1948 marked a new chapter in Sri Lanka's history, one that continues to unfold as the nation continues to evolve and develop.

The History of British Ceylon began in 1815 when the Kandyan Kingdom fell into the hands of the British. It ended over 2300 years of Sinhalese monarchy rule on the island. The British rule on the island lasted until 1948 when the country gained independence.