Facets of Modern Ceylon History by Michael Roberts is an insightful and comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s (formerly known as Ceylon) history, with a focus on the modern period. The book offers readers a deep dive into the social, political, and cultural changes that have shaped the island's contemporary identity. Written by one of Sri Lanka's leading historians, Michael Roberts, this work is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities and dynamics that have influenced Sri Lanka’s development in the modern era.
About the Book:
In Facets of Modern Ceylon History, Michael Roberts carefully examines the significant historical moments and trends that have defined modern Sri Lanka. The book spans a range of topics, from colonial influences to the post-independence period, shedding light on the key events and figures that have had a lasting impact on the country's trajectory.
Roberts delves into the changes that occurred during the British colonial period and how these events affected the socio-political landscape of Sri Lanka. He also discusses the impact of the independence movement and the subsequent challenges the nation faced as it navigated its new identity as a sovereign state. The book highlights the complexities of ethnic relations, nationalism, and the struggles for social justice that have played a central role in shaping modern Ceylon.
Throughout the book, Roberts emphasizes the importance of understanding history from multiple perspectives, offering readers a nuanced view of Ceylon’s past. His analysis is both thorough and accessible, making it suitable for both scholars and general readers with an interest in Sri Lanka’s history.
Key Themes:
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Colonial Legacy: The book explores how British colonial rule shaped Sri Lanka’s political, economic, and social structures, and the lingering effects of colonialism that continue to influence the country.
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Ethnicity and Nationalism: Roberts investigates the complex dynamics between different ethnic groups in Sri Lanka and how these tensions have shaped the island’s history, particularly in relation to Tamil-Sinhala relations.
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Social and Political Change: The book examines key political events such as the independence movement, the formation of the modern state, and the struggles for democratic reforms in post-independence Sri Lanka.
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Cultural Transformations: Roberts also looks at how culture, religion, and identity have evolved in modern Ceylon, exploring the interactions between traditional practices and Western influences.
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Economic Development: The impact of colonial and post-colonial economic policies on the development of Sri Lanka is also covered, offering insights into the economic struggles the country faced as it sought independence and beyond.
Why You Should Read Facets of Modern Ceylon History:
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In-depth Analysis: Michael Roberts provides a thorough and nuanced examination of modern Sri Lankan history, making the book a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the complexities of the island's past.
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Wide-Ranging Topics: From colonialism to modern nationalism, the book covers a diverse range of topics that are essential to understanding the historical forces that have shaped Sri Lanka.
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Accessible Writing Style: Despite the depth of its analysis, Roberts’ writing is clear and accessible, making the book suitable for both academic readers and those with a general interest in Sri Lanka’s history.
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Historical Insight: The book offers a rich historical perspective, shedding light on important events and figures that are often overlooked in mainstream discussions of Sri Lankan history.
Memorable Quotes from Facets of Modern Ceylon History:
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“Understanding modern Ceylon is an understanding of its fractured, yet vibrant, history.”
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“The roots of contemporary conflicts in Sri Lanka lie deep in the colonial past, but the future lies in reconciliation, not division.”
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“History is not just a record of events, but a living conversation with the present.”
About the Book:
Availability:
Facets of Modern Ceylon History is available for purchase at bookstores and online platforms. The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history and development of Sri Lanka, offering insights into the social, political, and cultural changes that have shaped the island's modern identity.
Physical Store Location:
This book is a must-read for historians, students, and anyone who is interested in the intricate and often challenging history of Sri Lanka. Michael Roberts’ scholarly work offers a rich tapestry of historical insights, making it an indispensable addition to any collection on South Asian history.
