Sir Albert Ernest de Silva was a Ceylonese business magnate, banker, barrister and public figure, considered to be the most prominent Ceylonese philanthropist of the 20th century. A wealthy and influential polymath, he was the founder-chairman of the largest bank in Ceylon, the Bank of Ceylon, the founder-governor of the State Mortgage Bank and chairman of the Ceylon All-Party committee. He made many contributions to Ceylonese society and is also considered to be the preeminent philatelist in the history of Ceylon. Upon Ceylon's independence, he was asked to become the first Ceylonese Governor General, an honour he declined for personal reasons. De Silva was at the pinnacle of upper-class society and, as the wealthiest Ceylonese of his generation, he defined the island's ruling class. His memorials describe him as highly respected for his integrity and honesty.
Ernest de Silva, Sri Lankan banker and businessman (born 1887)
On May 9, in the year 1957, Ernest de Silva, Sri Lankan banker and businessman (born 1887). This event is recorded as a Notable Deaths event in the history of May 9, one of 304 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including Ernest de Silva. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on May 9, 1957 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Deaths event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 24 April 2026.
On This Date in History 304
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