Tamil nationalism facts for kids
Tamil nationalism is a strong feeling of pride and belonging among people who speak the Tamil language. These people mostly live in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and in Sri Lanka. Tamil nationalists wanted to create their own independent state, which they called Tamil Eelam. This desire grew because of increasing difficulties and violence faced by ordinary Tamil people, especially after a period of unrest in Sri Lanka in 1983.
After Sri Lanka became independent from Britain, a new law called the Citizenship Act of 1948 was passed. This law made over a million Tamils, who had come from India, lose their citizenship. This meant they no longer belonged to any country, making them "stateless."
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What is Tamil Nationalism?
Tamil nationalism is a belief that Tamil people, who share a common language, culture, and history, should have their own homeland or a special place where their culture is protected. This feeling is very strong in both Tamil Nadu (a state in India) and in Sri Lanka. It's about celebrating their unique identity and making sure their language and traditions continue for future generations.
Why Did Tamil Nationalism Grow?
The idea of Tamil nationalism became stronger because of several reasons, especially in Sri Lanka. After the country gained independence, some laws and actions by the government made many Tamils feel like they were not treated fairly. They felt their language and culture were not given enough importance.
Difficult Times for Tamils
In 1983, there was a period of serious unrest and violence against Tamil people in Sri Lanka. This event made many Tamils feel unsafe and led to a stronger desire for their own separate area where they could live peacefully and protect their heritage. They believed that having their own state would keep them safe and allow their culture to thrive.
The Citizenship Act of 1948
One big reason for the rise of these feelings was a law passed in 1948. This law took away the citizenship of many Tamils who had moved to Sri Lanka from India a long time ago. Suddenly, these people had no country that recognized them as citizens. This meant they couldn't vote, own land easily, or have the same rights as others. This made many Tamils feel like outsiders in a place they had lived for generations.
What is Tamil Eelam?
Tamil Eelam is the name for the independent state that Tamil nationalists hoped to create. It would have been a separate country or region where Tamils could govern themselves and protect their language and culture without fear. The idea was to have a place where Tamil identity was central and celebrated.
Images for kids
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A lightboard that reads Long live Tamil (Tamil Valga in Tamil) outside a public building in Tamil Nadu.
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An official sign in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil text praises the language and urges Tamils to have pride in their linguistic and cultural heritage.
See also
In Spanish: Nacionalismo tamil para niños
