Lions vs. Tigers

Determining the Legitimacy of the Tamil Self-Determination Struggle in Sri Lanka

by Curtis S. Gile, M.A. Thesis, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA

Abstract:

This study uses a 'holistic' approach in determining the legitimacy of the Tamil national liberation struggle. A variety of theories and topics are utilized in order to achieve this goal. The study builds a case for the legitimacy of the Tamil self-determination claim by systematically analyzing these individual theories. Aspects of individual theories relating to ethnic-national studies, illegitimate regimes, state interventions in other states, civil war negotiations, Holsti's "state-strength dilemma," and international legal contexts for determining self-determination claims are all analyzed and applied to the Sri Lankan conflict.

The study begins with a historical overview in order to put the current conflict in the proper context. The study then examines the grievances of the Tamil population in Sri Lanka. In addition, the study "deconstructs" the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, hopefully offering insight into the workings of an organization that by its very nature and necessity is secretive.

The Historical-Comparative method and realism are used as overall social science theories for the research in "Lions vs. Tigers". These methods are used because the author believes they offer the most flexibility for analyzing a constantly changing conflict.

Table of Contents:

Preface

Chapter 1 - Introduction

Chapter 2 - Literature Review

Chapter 3 - The Historical Perspective

Chapter 4 - Do the Tamil People in Sri Lanka Constitute a Nation?

Chapter 5 - Tamil Grievances Against the Sri Lankan Government: Post-1948

Chapter 6 - Tamil Self-Determination in International Law

Chapter 7 - The LTTE- Vanguard of the Tamil Self-Determination Movement

Chapter 8 - The "State-Strength Dilemma" and Sri Lanka's Missed Opportunities

Chapter 9 - Summary of Previous Chapters

Chapter 10 - Conclusion - Possible Future Outcomes

Bibliography

Available:

Paper copy self-published on Lulu, August 22, 2008, 157 pages

E-book on Lulu and on Barnes & Noble Nook.