
Tamil Tigers (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam)
The Tamil Tigers, officially called the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), was a militant organization that sought an independent Tamil state in Sri Lanka. Originating in the 1970s, they used guerrilla warfare and terrorist tactics to fight the Sri Lankan government, aiming to address Tamil grievances over discrimination. The conflict lasted for decades, causing extensive violence and loss of life. The LTTE was known for innovations in suicide bombings and maritime combat. Their campaign ended in 2009 when Sri Lankan forces defeated them, leading to ongoing debates about ethnic tensions and reconciliation in Sri Lanka.