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Today in History: Sirimavo Bandaranaike becomes world's first elected female PM

7/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On 21 July 1960 Sirimavo Bandaranaike took the oath as Prime Minister of Ceylon, becoming the world’s first democratically elected female head of government. Leading the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, she served three terms—1960-65, 1970-77 and 1994-2000—totaling 17 years, the longest tenure of any Sri Lankan prime minister.

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Story summary

On 21 July 1960 Sirimavo Bandaranaike took the oath as Prime Minister of Ceylon, becoming the world’s first democratically elected female head of government. Leading the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, she served three terms—1960-65, 1970-77 and 1994-2000—totaling 17 years, the longest tenure of any Sri Lankan prime minister.