The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) was a militant organization in Sri Lanka that sought to create an independent Tamil state called Tamil Eelam. Founded in 1976, the LTTE fought against the Sri Lankan government, primarily representing the interests of the Tamil ethnic group, which faced discrimination and marginalization. The conflict between the LTTE and the Sri Lankan government escalated into a civil war that lasted nearly three decades, resulting in significant loss of life and displacement. The LTTE was known for its use of guerrilla tactics and suicide bombings. The group was designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States and India.