Burma, or Myanmar

Aung San was a tough young belle
against oppression she did rebel
as a prisoner for 15 years
her freedom was met with cheers
So do we call it Burma, or Myanmar – well, well!

Aung San Suu Kyi - Burma or Myanmar photoThe British colonial name of the substantial country bordering India, Laos, Bangladesh and China is Burma. In 1989, the then military government changed the name to Myanmar which was not recognised by many in political opposition and certain ethnic groups.

So do we refer to the country as Burma, or Myanmar? Such are the debates the international community has about a country that has an appalling human rights record and is ranked the bottom of the list of 190 countries in terms of health care. Go figure.

If you believe that such issues really matter, you’ll also likely believe that you might win if you play on this type of website! Optimism knows no bounds.

Comments

  1. Burma is what it was called by after independence. Myanmar is the name given by the military dictatorship and the SABC. Once a Legitimate government is restored it will become Burma onc again.

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