History of Pakistan

Pre-Pakistan

• Media
  • Documentary about British India - last 40 years.
  • Documentary about Partition.
  • Documentary about Ambedkar.
  • Short video about India caste system.

Governor generals and Primeministers : This was a period of power struggles.

General

• Capital: Islamabad
• Population: 220 million (2022)
• Area: 882,000 square kilometers (340,000 square miles)
• Official languages: Urdu, English
• Currency: Pakistani rupee (PKR)
• GDP per capita: $1,500 (PPP, 2022)
• Media
  • In 1980s Pakistan was richer than India. What happened? (Soch video).
  • Pakistan is dying (Caspian Report video).
  • Video about the geography of Pakistan.
  • The “Golden Age” Novel.
  • THE HISTORY OF PAKISTAN in 10 minutes.

People of Pakistan

• Ethnicity: The majority of Pakistanis are Punjabi (44%), Pashtun (15%), Sindhi (14%), Baloch (8%), and Muhajir (7%).
• Religion: Islam is the official religion of Pakistan, and 96.7% of Pakistanis are Muslim.
• Language: The most widely spoken languages in Pakistan are Urdu (75%) and Punjabi (44%).
• Culture: Pakistani culture is a blend of influences from the Indus Valley Civilization, the Gandhara Civilization, and the Islamic world.
• Media
  • Community video “Who are the Sindhis”.
  • Origin of Sindhis.
  • About Balochi Language.
  • Baluchi history.
  • Pathans.
  • Bhutto documentary.

Timeline

1947

• July: The Indian Independence Act
  • July 18: The British Parliament passed the Indian Independence Act, which formalized the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan.
• August: Birth of Pakistan
  • August 14: Pakistan was officially established as an independent country. This day is celebrated as Pakistan's Independence Day. Muhammad Ali Jinnah became the country's first Governor-General.
  • August 15: India gained its independence a day after Pakistan. Lord Mountbatten served as the first Governor-General of independent India.
• Post-Independence and Partition Violence
  • August-December: The immediate aftermath of partition was marked by horrific communal violence. Millions of Hindus and Sikhs migrated from what is now Pakistan to India, and millions of Muslims moved in the opposite direction. Estimates of the death toll vary, but it is generally believed that up to a million people may have died in the violence.
  • Mass Migration: This period saw one of the largest mass migrations in human history, with an estimated 10-15 million people displaced.
• Political and Social Challenges
  • Formation of Government: Pakistan faced immense challenges in setting up a new government, with limited resources and administrative structures.
  • Kashmir Conflict: The princely state of Kashmir became a major point of contention between India and Pakistan, leading to the first Indo-Pakistani War in October 1947.
• Initial Problems Faced in Pakistan(Video)
• There were issues of jurisdiction of princely states, for example in Kashmir, Hyderbad, Junagudh, and Kalat

  

  • Junagadh

  

  • Hyderabad

  • Kalat is a historic and culturally rich town in Balochistan, Pakistan, known for its scenic beauty, orchards, and the Royal Palace of Kalat. This town has a special connection with Pakistan's founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and has played a significant role in the history of the region.

    • Learn more about Kalat
    • Watch a recent interview with the Khan of Kalat

  • The first Indo-Pakistani War, also known as the First Kashmir War, commenced in October 1947 and lasted until December 1948. This conflict arose just after the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan. It was triggered by the dispute over the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Maharaja of Kashmir, Hari Singh, initially sought to remain independent but eventually acceded to India, leading to Pakistan's military intervention. The war resulted in significant casualties on both sides and ended with the establishment of the Line of Control, effectively dividing Kashmir into regions administered by Pakistan (Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan) and India. This unresolved conflict sowed the seeds of enduring tension and subsequent conflicts between the two nations over the Kashmir region.
    Dr. Amarjit Singh : Re-Visiting History-Rise/Fall of Sikh Empire in 18th/19th Century
    Video on the First India/Pakistan War in 1948
    Story of Pakistan - Episode 6 | Kashmir; An Unfinished Saga (1947 - 1948) | Shan | 13 Aug 2020| ISPR

1948

• Pakistan continued to face immense challenges in its initial months. The government, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah as the Governor-General and Liaquat Ali Khan as prime minister, was tasked with setting up new administrative systems, dealing with the aftermath of partition, and managing the large influx of refugees.
• Liaquat ali khan.
• The Kashmir Conflict
  • Continued Hostilities: The conflict over Kashmir, which had started in 1947, continued into 1948. This conflict was a major focus for Pakistan's military and political efforts.
  • January 1, 1948: India took the Kashmir issue to the United Nations Security Council, which led to a series of resolutions and a UN-mediated ceasefire later in the year.
• The Bengali (Bangla) language controversy
  • The controversy began to take shape when Jinnah declared that Urdu would be the sole national language of Pakistan, and this announcement was made during his visit to Dhaka, the capital of East Pakistan.
• Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s Health and Death
  • Declining Health: Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, had been suffering from tuberculosis and lung cancer, though his illness was kept secret from the public.
  • September 11, 1948: Jinnah passed away in Karachi, marking a significant loss for the young nation. His death left a leadership vacuum and set off a period of political instability.
• Political Developments Post-Jinnah
  • Khawaja Nazimuddin's Ascension: Following Jinnah’s death, Khawaja Nazimuddin, the then-Governor-General of East Pakistan, succeeded him as the Governor-General of Pakistan.
  • Political Instability: Jinnah's death intensified the existing political challenges, including regional disparities between East and West Pakistan and the need for a constitution.
• Relations with India
  • Continued Strain: Relations with India remained tense due to the Kashmir conflict and issues related to partition, including the division of assets and the treatment of minorities in both countries.
• International Relations
  • Engagement with the World: Pakistan began establishing its foreign policy, seeking international recognition and support. It joined the United Nations on September 30, 1947, and continued to build relations with other countries in 1948.
• Cultural and Ideological Foundations
  • Islamic Identity: The question of Pakistan's Islamic identity and its role in state affairs began to take center stage, a debate that would significantly influence the country's future trajectory.

1949

• Political Developments
  • Objective Resolution: On March 12, 1949, the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan passed the Objective Resolution, which laid down the principles for the future constitution of Pakistan. Proposed by Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan, it declared that sovereignty over the entire universe belongs to Allah alone and that the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust. This resolution became the foundational framework for Pakistan's constitutional development and was seen as an attempt to harmonize Western democratic principles with Islamic values.
  • Objective Resolution 1949|Pakistan affairs| Political science| CSS PMS |.
  • Objectives Resolution 1949 (Constitutional History of Pakistan).
  • Constitution of Pakistan | Mian Muhammad Iftikharuddin.
  • The Objective Resolution is a surprisingly short document.
• Economic Developments
  • Economic Planning: Pakistan started focusing on economic planning and development. The government began to lay the groundwork for the first five-year plan to address economic challenges, including industrial and agricultural development.
  • Trade and Aid: Efforts were made to increase trade with other countries and seek international aid to support the country's fledgling economy.
• Social and Cultural Issues
  • Language Controversy: The language controversy continued in East Pakistan. The discontent over the imposition of Urdu as the national language was simmering, contributing to the growing sense of alienation in East Pakistan.
  • Refugee Resettlement: The resettlement and integration of refugees, who had migrated from India after partition, remained a significant issue. The government faced challenges in providing adequate housing, employment, and social services to these refugees.
• Foreign Policy and International Relations
  • Alignment with the West: Pakistan began to align itself more closely with Western powers, particularly the United States. This alignment was partly driven by the emerging Cold War dynamics and Pakistan's strategic position.
  • Kashmir Issue: The Kashmir issue continued to be a major point of contention between Pakistan and India. Despite United Nations interventions and resolutions, a lasting solution remained elusive.
  • Membership in International Organizations: Pakistan continued to establish its presence in the international arena, joining various international organizations and seeking to play a role in global affairs.

1950

• Political Developments
  • Government Consolidation: Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan continued to lead the government, focusing on consolidating Pakistan's political structure and addressing the challenges of a young nation.
  • Constitutional Progress: Efforts to draft Pakistan's first constitution continued, following the adoption of the Objective Resolution in 1949. This resolution laid the foundation for the country's constitutional and legal system, blending Islamic and democratic principles.
• Social and Economic Issues
  • Refugee Resettlement: The resettlement of millions of refugees who had migrated from India after the partition in 1947 remained a major challenge. The government was tasked with providing housing, employment, and social services to these refugees.
  • Communal Tensions: Communal tensions, a legacy of the partition, continued to simmer in various parts of the country. The government faced the task of maintaining law and order and promoting communal harmony.
• Foreign Policy and International Relations
  • Liaquat–Nehru Pact: In April 1950, Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru signed the Liaquat–Nehru Pact, also known as the Delhi Pact. This agreement was aimed at protecting the rights of minorities in both countries, in the wake of communal violence that had occurred since partition.
  • Nehru Liaquat Agreement in Hindi for UPSC IAS.
  • Alignment in the Cold War: Pakistan began to navigate its position in the Cold War era, gradually moving closer to Western powers, particularly the United States. This alignment was driven by geopolitical considerations and the need for economic and military aid.

1951

• The Rawalpindi Conspiracy Case
  • March 1951: The Rawalpindi Conspiracy Case came to light when a group of military officers and civilians were arrested for plotting to overthrow the government. This attempted coup was the first of its kind in Pakistan's history. Major General Akbar Khan was identified as the chief conspirator. The conspiracy indicated the presence of significant discontent within the military and among certain political groups.
• What Happened During the First Coup Attempt Against Liaquat Ali Khan's Government?.
• Rawalpindi Conspiracy Case.
• Faiz Ahmed Faiz - Voice of Revolution.
• Assassination of Liaquat Ali Khan
  • October 16, 1951: The most shocking event of the year was the assassination of Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan during a public meeting at Company Bagh (now Liaquat Bagh) in Rawalpindi. His assassination was a major blow to the young nation and led to a period of political instability. The motives and the mastermind behind his assassination have remained subjects of speculation and controversy.
• Political Aftermath and Leadership Changes
  • Post-Assassination Scenario: Following Liaquat Ali Khan's assassination, there was a vacuum in leadership. Khawaja Nazimuddin, then the Governor-General, moved to fill the position of Prime Minister.
  • Governor-General Position: Ghulam Muhammad took over as the Governor-General after Khawaja Nazimuddin became the Prime Minister.
• Liaquat Ali khan assassination.
• Khawaja Nazimuddin.
• Foreign Policy
  • Continued Alignment with the West: Pakistan's foreign policy continued to lean towards the Western bloc, particularly the United States, amidst the global Cold War dynamics.
• Military Developments
  • Strengthening of the Military: In the wake of the Rawalpindi Conspiracy, there was an increased focus on strengthening the military's loyalty to the state and its leadership.

1952

• Political Developments
  • Governance and Leadership: Following the assassination of Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan in 1951, Khawaja Nazimuddin, the then Governor-General, assumed the role of Prime Minister. However, his tenure was marked by political instability and challenges in governance.
  • Political Instability: The political landscape remained turbulent, with ongoing power struggles and a lack of strong leadership. This instability was a significant factor in the eventual dismissal of Khawaja Nazimuddin by Governor-General Ghulam Muhammad in 1953.
• The Language Movement in East Pakistan
  • Bengali Language Movement: One of the most significant events of 1952 in Pakistan was the intensification of the Bengali Language Movement in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). The movement was a response to the government's decision to establish Urdu as the sole national language, which was seen as marginalizing the Bengali-speaking majority in East Pakistan.
  • 21st February - Language Martyrs' Day: The movement reached a critical point on February 21, 1952, when students and political activists in Dhaka launched a protest demanding official status for the Bengali language. The protest was met with police violence, resulting in several deaths. This day is commemorated annually as International Mother Language Day, recognizing the struggle to protect linguistic and cultural rights.
  • Bangla movement .
  • International language day.

1953

• The Ahmadiyya Riots
  • Background: Tensions had been brewing against the Ahmadiyya community, a religious group considered heretical by mainstream Muslims due to their beliefs about prophethood.
  • Riots: In March 1953, these tensions erupted into violent riots in Lahore, primarily instigated by religious groups demanding that Ahmadis be declared non-Muslims and removed from influential government positions.
  • Government Response: The situation escalated, leading to the imposition of martial law in Lahore on March 6, 1953. Major General Azam Khan was appointed as the martial law administrator.
  • Aftermath: The riots resulted in considerable loss of life and property. They also led to significant political changes, including the dismissal of Prime Minister Khawaja Nazimuddin by Governor-General Ghulam Muhammad.
• Lahore riots 1953.
• Life story of Governor General Ghulam Muhammad.
• Zafarullah Khan.
• Ahmadi's in Canada.
• Political Instability
  • Dismissal of Prime Minister: The handling of the Ahmadiyya riots and the general political instability led to the dismissal of Prime Minister Khawaja Nazimuddin by Governor-General Ghulam Muhammad in April 1953. This move was controversial and highlighted the growing power struggle between the Prime Minister and the Governor-General.
  • Appointment of Muhammad Ali Bogra: Muhammad Ali Bogra was appointed as the new Prime Minister. His tenure was marked by efforts to draft a new constitution for Pakistan.
  • Ghulam Muhammad and Bogra (1951-1955)
• Constitutional Developments
  • Bogra Formula: Prime Minister Bogra proposed a constitutional formula to address the representation issue between East and West Pakistan. The formula aimed to balance the political power between the two wings of Pakistan but faced various challenges and opposition.
• Foreign Relations
  • Cold War Alignment: Pakistan continued to align itself with the Western bloc during the Cold War. This alignment was part of its strategy to gain military and economic aid and counterbalance India's influence in the region.

1954

• Constitutional Developments: The Constituent Assembly of Pakistan continued efforts to draft the country's first constitution, grappling with issues related to federalism, provincial representation, and the role of Islam in the state.
• Dissolution of the Constituent Assembly: In a significant political move, Governor-General Ghulam Muhammad dissolved the Constituent Assembly in October 1954. This action, which was later challenged in court, led to an increase in executive power and a decrease in legislative authority.
• Pakistan Constitution Video.
• One Unit Scheme: The government announced the 'One Unit' scheme, which consolidated all the provinces of West Pakistan into a single administrative unit. This was intended to create parity between East and West Pakistan but received mixed reactions, particularly from smaller provinces.
• One Unit Scheme (Dawn Article).
• Foreign Relations: Pakistan continued to strengthen its foreign relations, particularly with the United States and other Western countries, aligning more closely with the West during the Cold War era.

1955

• Implementation of the One Unit Scheme: The One Unit scheme was officially implemented on October 14, 1955. This major administrative reorganization merged the four provinces of West Pakistan (Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and the North-West Frontier Province) into a single province, named West Pakistan, to create parity with East Pakistan.
• Formation of the Second Constituent Assembly: A new Constituent Assembly was formed in 1955, replacing the one dissolved in 1954. This assembly was tasked with drafting a new constitution for Pakistan.
• Appointment of Chaudhry Muhammad Ali as Prime Minister: Following the resignation of Muhammad Ali Bogra, Chaudhry Muhammad Ali was appointed as the Prime Minister of Pakistan. He played a significant role in the constitutional development of the country.
• Chaudhry Muhammad Ali.
• Continued Political Instability: The political landscape in Pakistan remained unstable, with frequent changes in leadership and ongoing power struggles.
• Economic and Developmental Efforts: The government continued to focus on economic development, including industrialization and infrastructure projects, to boost the country's economy.
• Foreign Relations and Cold War Dynamics: Pakistan maintained its alignment with Western powers, particularly the United States, as part of its strategic positioning in the Cold War context.
• Iskander Mirza: Mirza became the Governor-General of Pakistan on October 6, 1955. His ascent to this position was a significant event in Pakistan's political history, marking the rise of a military-bureaucratic elite in the country's governance. Mirza, who had previously served as the Defence Secretary, played a crucial role in the political developments leading up to his appointment as Governor-General. His tenure as Governor-General was marked by political instability and set the stage for his subsequent role as the first President of Pakistan after the country became a republic in 1956.
• Iskandar Mirza Era| History Of Sikandar Mirza| A Power Hungry Man.

1956

• Adoption of the 1956 Constitution: On March 23, 1956, Pakistan adopted its first constitution, officially becoming the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The constitution established a parliamentary system of government with the President as the head of state.
• Iskander Mirza Becomes First President: Following the adoption of the constitution, Iskander Mirza, who had been serving as the Governor-General, became the first President of Pakistan.
• Political Developments: The year was marked by significant political developments, including the consolidation of power in the central government and ongoing challenges in establishing stable democratic governance.
• Economic and Social Progress: Efforts continued to develop Pakistan's economy and address various social issues, including education and healthcare.
• Foreign Relations: Pakistan maintained its strategic alliances, particularly with the United States, and continued to navigate its position in the Cold War geopolitical landscape.
• Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy was appointed as the Prime Minister of Pakistan in September 1956. His appointment was seen as a move to bring political stability and to address the growing discontent in East Pakistan
• Pakistan kay PM#05 | Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy | by Bilal Ghauri
• Read about the Suhrawardys of Bengal

Other

• Media
  • Bhutto documentary.
  • Modi Question Part 1 (BBC documentary).