Explain the three schools of Buddhism and where they are mainly practised.

There are three schools of Buddhism. Theravāda, or the School of the Elders, developed in the 3rd century BCE and is closest to Buddha's original teachings. It is mainly practised in Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar. Mahāyāna, or Great Vehicle, developed in the 1st century BCE with the belief that Buddha had a divine nature, and travelled to China, Japan, and Korea. Vajrayāna, or Diamond Vehicle, developed in the 6th century CE and emphasised mantras, mandalas, and visualisations. Tibetan Buddhism derived from this school in the 7th century CE.