1980s: The Sri Lankan government faces a rebellion from the Tamil minority, although this rebellion is largely suppressed by certain groups of the Sri Lankan people.

Today: Following the assassination of the Sri Lankan president in 1993, the premier is appointed acting president. The Sri Lankan army continues to battle the Tamil rebels.

1980s: Sri Lanka tries to shore up its faltering economy by developing offshore banking and insurance industries.

Today: Despite its efforts to strengthen its economy through foreign trade and investments, Sri Lanka is still dependent on foreign aid.

1980s: Sri Lanka's economy is primarily agricultural, although textiles and garments become the biggest export product.

Today: Although Sri Lanka's agricultural products— including cinnamon, tea, rubber, and coconut— continue to be in demand, textiles and garments are still the biggest export product.