E. W. Perera
This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (April 2020) |
E. W. Perera | |
---|---|
Royal College Colombo | |
Occupation | Politics |
Profession | Barrister |
Edward Walter Perera (11 December 1875 – 15 February 1953) was a
Early life and education
Edward Walter Perera was born on 11 December 1875 at
Role in the Sri Lankan independence movement
During the
A memorandum was drafted at a secret meeting held at Perera's residence, initiated by Sir James Peiris with the participation of Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan. Before presenting it to the His Majesty's Government, the support of the British members of parliament and the press in England had to be obtained. Travelling to England by sea was dangerous due to the presence of German submarines in the region. Abandoning a promising career at the Bar, Perera undertook the task of going over to England by obtaining permission saying he was going to do some research in the British Museum. To his advantage, the British treated him as a scholarly Christian Barrister rather than an independence activist. He was accompanied by George E. de Silva. In England, he was joined by Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan and later by Sir D.B Jayatilaka and they presented the memorandum to the Secretary of State for the Colonies, pleading for the repeal of martial law and describing the atrocities committed by the Police led by Dowbiggin.[4] The mission was a success. The British government ordered the release of the leaders who were in detention. Several high officials were transferred. A new Governor, Sir John Anderson was sent to replace Sir Robert Chalmers with instructions to inquire and report to His Majesty's Government. Perera's effort was greatly appreciated and he was thereafter referred to as the Lion of Kotte.
It was also Perera who with the help of
Political career
He was a member of the
Later life
He was a scholar and wrote several books. He died on 15 February 1953 at the age of 77.
See also
- National Heroes of Sri Lanka
- Sri Lankan independence movement
- Sri Lankan independence activist
- Legislative Council of Ceylon
References
- ^ Fernando, C W Annesley Sumith. "E W Perera, Lion of Kotte". Daily News. Retrieved 16 April 2020.
- ISBN 0-226-78950-0.
- ISBN 0-253-34420-4.
- ^ Features
- ^ Tribute to the men who gave us the National Flag
External links