Assess how the British used divide and rule policies in Sri Lanka. (1 point)

Question

They chose Sinhalese over Tamils in bureaucratic positions.

They favored the Tamil over the native Sinhalese.

They made the Tamils refugees of the nation after a military coup.

They used scorched-earth tactics on the ethnic minorities.

Answer 1

The British used divide and rule policies in Sri Lanka by favoring the Tamils over the native Sinhalese and choosing Sinhalese over Tamils in bureaucratic positions. This created tensions between the two ethnic groups and furthered divisions within the country. Additionally, by favoring one group over the other, the British were able to maintain control and influence over both communities.