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30 Facts About Eelam War II

Terrijo Boykins

Written by Terrijo Boykins

Published: 12 Jan 2025

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Source: Transyl2014.blogspot.com

Eelam War II was a brutal conflict that took place in Sri Lanka from 1990 to 1995. This war was a continuation of the struggle between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a militant organization fighting for an independent Tamil state. The conflict saw intense battles, significant civilian casualties, and widespread displacement. Understanding Eelam War II is crucial to grasping the complexities of Sri Lanka’s modern history. This article will provide 30 key facts about the war, shedding light on its causes, major events, and lasting impact. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, these facts will give you a clearer picture of this significant period.

Key Takeaways:

  • Eelam War II, spanning from 1990 to 1995, was a significant phase in the Sri Lankan Civil War, leading to widespread displacement, human rights violations, and economic repercussions.
  • The war highlighted the need for inclusive governance, equitable resource distribution, and timely peacebuilding efforts, leaving a lasting impact on Sri Lankan society and culture.
Table of Contents
01Eelam War II: A Brief Overview
02Key Players and Events
03Humanitarian Impact
04Military Tactics and Strategies
05International Involvement
06End of Eelam War II
07Legacy of Eelam War II
08Cultural and Social Effects
09Economic Consequences
10Lessons Learned
11Reflecting on Eelam War II

Eelam War II: A Brief Overview

Eelam War II was a significant phase in the Sri Lankan Civil War, spanning from 1990 to 1995. This period saw intense conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Here are some fascinating facts about this tumultuous time.

  1. Eelam War II began in June 1990 after a ceasefire between the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE broke down.

  2. The war was primarily fought in the Northern and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka, areas with significant Tamil populations.

  3. The LTTE, also known as the Tamil Tigers, sought to create an independent Tamil state called Tamil Eelam.

Key Players and Events

Understanding the main actors and pivotal moments of Eelam War II provides insight into the conflict's complexity.

  1. Velupillai Prabhakaran led the LTTE, becoming one of the most feared and influential figures in the conflict.

  2. The Sri Lankan government was headed by President Ranasinghe Premadasa at the war's onset.

  3. The Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF), initially deployed to maintain peace, withdrew in 1990, leaving a power vacuum.

  4. The LTTE launched Operation Sea Breeze in 1990, capturing the strategic town of Mullaitivu.

Humanitarian Impact

The war had a profound effect on civilians, leading to widespread displacement and suffering.

  1. Over 100,000 people were displaced during the conflict, many seeking refuge in makeshift camps.

  2. The war saw numerous human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and disappearances.

  3. The Jaffna Teaching Hospital massacre in 1990 resulted in the deaths of over 60 patients and staff.

Military Tactics and Strategies

Both sides employed various military strategies to gain the upper hand, often resulting in significant casualties.

  1. The LTTE used guerrilla warfare tactics, including ambushes and hit-and-run attacks.

  2. The Sri Lankan military launched Operation Riviresa in 1995, aiming to recapture the Jaffna Peninsula.

  3. The LTTE's naval wing, the Sea Tigers, played a crucial role in disrupting government supply lines.

International Involvement

The international community's role in Eelam War II was complex, with various countries providing support or condemnation.

  1. India initially supported the Tamil cause but later shifted its stance, leading to strained relations with the LTTE.

  2. The United States and other Western nations condemned the LTTE's use of child soldiers.

  3. Norway attempted to mediate peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE.

End of Eelam War II

The war's conclusion marked a temporary halt in hostilities, setting the stage for future conflicts.

  1. Eelam War II officially ended in December 1995 with the fall of Jaffna to government forces.

  2. The LTTE retreated to the Vanni region, regrouping and preparing for future battles.

  3. Despite the war's end, sporadic violence and skirmishes continued in the following years.

Legacy of Eelam War II

The war left a lasting impact on Sri Lanka, shaping its political and social landscape for years to come.

  1. The conflict deepened ethnic divisions between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority.

  2. Eelam War II highlighted the need for a political solution to address Tamil grievances.

  3. The war's aftermath saw increased militarization in the Northern and Eastern provinces.

Cultural and Social Effects

The war influenced Sri Lankan culture and society, leaving an indelible mark on its people.

  1. Many Tamil families were separated, with members fleeing to different parts of the world.

  2. The conflict inspired numerous works of literature, film, and art, reflecting the war's impact on Sri Lankan society.

  3. The war led to the rise of a strong Tamil diaspora, advocating for Tamil rights and recognition.

Economic Consequences

The war had significant economic repercussions, affecting Sri Lanka's development and prosperity.

  1. Infrastructure in the Northern and Eastern provinces was severely damaged, hindering economic growth.

  2. The conflict disrupted agriculture and fishing, key industries in the affected regions.

  3. The Sri Lankan government allocated substantial resources to the military, diverting funds from social and economic development.

Lessons Learned

Eelam War II offers valuable lessons on conflict resolution and the importance of addressing underlying grievances.

  1. The war underscored the need for inclusive governance and equitable resource distribution.

  2. It highlighted the dangers of prolonged conflict and the importance of timely and effective peacebuilding efforts.

Reflecting on Eelam War II

Eelam War II, a significant chapter in Sri Lanka's history, left lasting impacts on the nation. The conflict, which spanned from 1990 to 1995, saw intense battles between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). This war resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread displacement, affecting countless lives. Understanding the complexities of this period helps shed light on the ongoing challenges and the resilience of the Sri Lankan people. The war's legacy continues to influence the country's political, social, and economic landscape. By learning about Eelam War II, we gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of those who lived through it. This knowledge also underscores the importance of peace and reconciliation in building a better future for all Sri Lankans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly was Eelam War II?
Eelam War II refers to a phase of the Sri Lankan Civil War, fought between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). This conflict, spanning from 1990 to 1995, marked a significant escalation in violence and complexity in the long-standing ethnic tensions within Sri Lanka.
How did Eelam War II start?
Hostilities reignited after a breakdown in peace talks and the failure of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) to disarm the LTTE. The LTTE's aggressive push for an independent Tamil state led to renewed conflict, with both sides engaging in intense military confrontations.
Were there any significant battles during Eelam War II?
Absolutely, several key battles shaped the course of Eelam War II. Notable among them were the battles for Elephant Pass, a strategic causeway, and the siege of Jaffna, the cultural capital of the Tamil people in Sri Lanka. These battles were pivotal in determining the control of territories in the northern part of the island.
What was the international response to Eelam War II?
The international community's response was mixed, with concerns over human rights violations and the humanitarian crisis. Some countries and organizations attempted to mediate peace, while others imposed arms embargoes or offered humanitarian aid to displaced civilians.
How did Eelam War II affect civilians?
Civilians bore the brunt of the conflict, with thousands killed, injured, or displaced from their homes. The war also led to economic hardships, with infrastructure damage and disruptions to daily life becoming commonplace in affected areas.
What were the outcomes of Eelam War II?
Eelam War II concluded with the Sri Lankan government regaining control over the Jaffna Peninsula, albeit temporarily. However, the conflict failed to resolve the underlying ethnic tensions, setting the stage for future escalations in the civil war.
Did Eelam War II lead to any peace efforts?
Yes, following the war, there were several attempts at peace, including talks facilitated by international mediators. These efforts aimed to address the root causes of the conflict and to find a lasting solution to the ethnic divisions in Sri Lanka.

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