First Female Prime Minister in the World, Know the Name

First Female Prime Minister in the World

In the annals of history, there are individuals whose leadership transcends boundaries and reshapes the world’s political landscape. One such remarkable figure is Sirimavo Bandaranaike, who etched her name in history as the first woman in the world to become a Prime Minister. Her journey through politics, her unwavering commitment to her nation and her pioneering role in advancing the rights of women and children make her a true icon of leadership and empowerment.

Early Life and Education

Birth date: 17^th April 1916

Birth place: Ratnapura, British Ceylon

Sirimavo Ratwatte Dias Bandaranaike, born on 17^th April 1916 into a prominent Kandyan aristocratic family of Sinhalese descent in Ceylon (later became Sri Lanka), was marked by a deep connection to her roots. Despite attending Catholic English-medium schools, she remained firmly rooted in her Buddhist faith, epitomizing the cultural and religious diversity of her homeland. Fluent in both Sinhala and English, she possessed the qualities that would later define her as a stateswoman and leader.

Social Work and Family

Before entering the political arena, Sirimavo Bandaranaike was deeply engaged in social work, particularly in endeavors aimed at improving the lives of rural Sri Lankan women and girls. Her dedication to these causes laid the foundation for her future political career. In addition to her commitment to her nation, Sirimavo balanced her life with family responsibilities, marrying Solomon Bandaranaike, a prominent politician and raising a family.

Political Career

The pivotal moment in Sirimavo Bandaranaike’s life came with her husband’s tragic assassination in 1959. She inherited his political legacy, becoming the leader of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. The following year, in 1960, she shattered the glass ceiling by becoming the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon), a historic milestone that marked the dawn of women’s leadership on the global stage.

Term as the World’s First Female Prime Minister

During her remarkable political career, Sirimavo Bandaranaike served as Prime Minister for three terms. Her first term lasted from 1960 to 1965 and she subsequently held the position twice more: one as the head of the state and later under a presidential system from 1994 to 2000. Her enduring popularity among the Sri Lankan people was an evident to her leadership and commitment to the nation.

Ministry of Women and Child Affairs

Sirimavo Bandaraniake’s legacy extended beyond her political achievements. Recognizing the importance of addressing the needs of women and children, she established the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs in Sri Lanka. This ground-breaking initiative reflected her dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable segments of society.

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