How did British colonial rule affect Burma's ethnic groups?

British colonial rule exacerbated ethnic tensions in Burma, leading to conflicts that persist to this day.

The British Empire's rule over Burma, now known as Myanmar, from 1824 to 1948, had a profound impact on the country's ethnic groups. The British implemented a policy of 'divide and rule', which heightened ethnic tensions and led to conflicts that continue to this day. This policy involved favouring certain ethnic groups over others, which created a hierarchy and fostered resentment among the less favoured groups.

The British favoured the Bamar, the country's largest ethnic group, over the other ethnic groups. They were given preferential treatment in terms of education and employment opportunities, which led to their dominance in the country's political and economic life. This created resentment among the other ethnic groups, who felt marginalised and discriminated against. The British also used the Bamar to help administer their rule, which further deepened the divisions between the Bamar and the other ethnic groups.

In addition, the British brought in large numbers of Indian and Chinese immigrants to work in the country's economy. This led to further tensions as these immigrants were often given better jobs and opportunities than the native Burmese. The resentment this caused was a major factor in the anti-colonial movements that emerged in the early 20th century.

The British also drew arbitrary borders that did not take into account the traditional territories of the country's ethnic groups. This led to disputes over land and resources, which have been a source of conflict ever since. The British also failed to develop a sense of national identity among the country's diverse ethnic groups, which has made it difficult for the country to achieve national unity since independence.

In conclusion, British colonial rule had a profound and lasting impact on Burma's ethnic groups. The policies of divide and rule, favouritism, immigration, and arbitrary border drawing all served to exacerbate ethnic tensions and lead to conflicts that persist to this day.