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First populated by the Sinhalese, it was eventually occupied by the Portuguese in the 16th century and by the Dutch in the 17th century. Then in 1796, it was ceded to the British, becoming a crown colony in 1802. Long known as Ceylon, it became independent in 1948, with its name changed to Sri Lanka in 1972.
Population
20,064,776
Capital City
Colombo
Languages
Sinhala, Tamil, others
Official Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee
Religion
Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, Christian
Climate
Tropical, Hot and humid throughout the year. Summer monsoons, May through October, covers much of the island with rain. In the dry season severe drought is not uncommon.
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