Submitted by: Abdul Mannan

Roll no: 004

Semester: 4th
Session: 2022-2026

Subject: Political History of Pakistan 1947-

Presesnt
Submission Date: 28oct,2023
 “Topics”

 Political history of Pakistan (1947-1958)

.

The Birth of Pakistan (1947)

The Birth of Pakistan in 1947 marked a pivotal moment in South Asian history,
resulting from the partition of British India into two independent nations, India
and Pakistan. This division was largely based on religious lines, with Pakistan
being created as a separate homeland for Muslims. Here's a detailed explanation
of this historic event.
 Historical Background:
British India had been under colonial rule for nearly two centuries, and by the
mid-20th century, there was a growing demand for independence from the Indian
population.
 The Role of the All-India Muslim League:
The All-India Muslim League, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, played a crucial role in
advocating for the rights and interests of Muslims in British India.
The Lahore Resolution of 1940, also known as the Pakistan Resolution, laid the
foundation for the demand of a separate Muslim state.
 Mountbatten Plan:
The last British Viceroy of India, Lord Louis Mountbatten, proposed a plan for
partition and the transfer of power, which was accepted by the Indian National
Congress and the Muslim League.
The plan recommended the partition of British India into two dominions, India
and Pakistan, with the option for princely states to join either of them or remain
independent.

 Independence and Bloodshed:

On August 14, 1947, Pakistan came into existence as a sovereign state. A day
later, on August 15, India also achieved independence.
However, the partition was marred by communal violence and large-scale
migration, leading to one of the largest and most tragic mass migrations in human
history. Millions of people were displaced, and hundreds of thousands lost their
lives in the ensuing violence.
 Leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah:
Muhammad Ali Jinnah, often referred to as "Quaid-e-Azam" (Great Leader),
became Pakistan's first Governor-General and later its first President.
He emphasized principles such as religious freedom, equality, and social justice in
his vision for the new nation.
 Geographical Division:
Pakistan was divided into two geographically and culturally distinct regions: West
Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) and East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). The
two regions were separated by approximately 1,600 kilometers of Indian
territory.
 Challenges and Opportunities:
Pakistan faced various challenges at its inception, including the need to establish
a functional government, develop a legal framework, and manage the influx of
refugees.
The country was also grappling with issues like the distribution of resources
between the two wings (West and East Pakistan) and the absence of a
constitution.
 International Recognition:
Pakistan was recognized as an independent nation by several countries, and it
became a member of the United Nations.
The birth of Pakistan in 1947 was a historic moment, but it was accompanied by
significant challenges, including the traumatic legacy of partition, political
instability, and the quest for a distinct national identity. This period laid the
foundation for Pakistan's political, social, and economic development in the years
to come.

1948: Founding of Pakistan

 Early Governance and Challenges
The first year after independence presented various challenges for the newly
formed nation. The government was tasked with establishing institutions,
infrastructure, and policies to govern a diverse and newly-formed state.

 Political and Social Initiatives

Jinnah assumed the role of Governor-General, guiding the country through its
initial phase. The new government faced internal strife, migration issues, and the
arduous task of nation-building.

 International Recognition and Establishment

Pakistan gained international recognition and became a member of the United
Nations in 1947. Diplomatic efforts were focused on solidifying the country's place
in the global community.

 Jinnah's Vision
Jinnah's vision for Pakistan emphasized democracy, equality, and religious
freedom. He aimed to create a state where citizens, regardless of their faith,
could live peacefully and prosper.

 Challenges and Achievements

The fledgling nation faced challenges in consolidating its governance structures,
resettling refugees, and defining its identity. However, it also made strides in
setting up administrative systems and laying the groundwork for a constitutional
framework.

 Legacy
The events of 1947 and the subsequent year of establishment left a significant
mark on Pakistan’s history, shaping its governance, society, and the identity of its
people.
“This period not only marked the birth of a new nation but also set the tone for
the challenges and aspirations that would define Pakistan’s trajectory in the years
to come.”

1949: Objectives Resolution

Introduction of Objectives Resolution:
The Objectives Resolution of 1949 was a seminal moment in Pakistan's history. It
was introduced by Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan in the Constituent Assembly.
This resolution laid down the principles and objectives upon which the future
constitution of Pakistan would be based.

Lahore Resolution (1940):

The seeds of the Objectives Resolution were sown in the Lahore Resolution of
1940, which demanded the creation of independent states for Muslims in British
India.

Objective of the Resolution:

The Objectives Resolution aimed to provide the constitutional framework for
Pakistan, articulating the guiding principles and objectives upon which the
country would be built.

Key Events and Significance

 Introduced by Liaquat Ali Khan:
The Resolution was presented by the first Prime Minister of Pakistan, Liaquat Ali
Khan, on March 7, 1949, in the Constituent Assembly.

 Incorporating Islamic Principles:

It outlined the principles that would shape the future constitution and
emphasized the principles of democracy, equality, social justice, and most
importantly, the role of Islam in the state.

Debates and Adoption

 Debates in the Constituent Assembly:
The presentation of the Objectives Resolution initiated intense debates among
members of the Constituent Assembly, reflecting diverse perspectives on the role
of religion in the state.

 Adoption:
After prolonged discussions, the Resolution was eventually adopted on March 12,
1949, with a vast majority in favor. It laid the foundation for the future
constitution of Pakistan.

Key Elements of the Objectives Resolution

 Sovereignty of Allah:
It affirmed the sovereignty of Allah as the ultimate authority and emphasized the
supremacy of the Quran and Sunnah (teachings and practices of the Prophet
Muhammad).

 Democratic Principles:
The Resolution endorsed the principles of democracy, ensuring the rights and
freedoms of all citizens.

Impact and Legacy

 Constitutional Framework:
The Objectives Resolution played a pivotal role in shaping the subsequent
constitution of Pakistan by influencing the constitutional principles.

 Impact on Identity:
It laid the groundwork for defining the role of Islam in the state, a feature that
continued to shape the country’s identity and governance.
 Legacy and Continued Influence
“The principles enshrined in the Objectives Resolution continue to influence the
governance, politics, and the societal fabric of Pakistan, shaping its identity as an
Islamic Republic and guiding its constitutional journey."

1951-1955: Ghulam Muhammad's Governor-Generalship

Ghulam Muhammad, a prominent bureaucrat and civil servant, assumed the
office of Governor-General of Pakistan in 1951. His tenure was marked by various
political and constitutional challenges.

Economic and Political Landscape

Post-Independence Challenges:
Pakistan faced significant economic and political hurdles in its formative years,
including issues related to refugee rehabilitation, governance structure, and
economic stability.

Role of Governor-General:
Ghulam Muhammad played a key role in navigating these challenges, making
critical decisions during his term.
 Actions and Policy Decisions
Dismissal of Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan:
Ghulam Muhammad made a controversial decision by dismissing Prime Minister
Liaquat Ali Khan in 1953 due to differences over economic policies and
administrative matters. This move had a significant impact on the political
landscape of the time.

Appointment of Muhammad Ali Bogra:

Following Liaquat Ali Khan's dismissal, Ghulam Muhammad appointed
Muhammad Ali Bogra as the new Prime Minister in 1953.
 Constitutional Crisis and Role
Clash with the Constituent Assembly:
Ghulam Muhammad's tenure was marked by a constitutional crisis. His clashes
with the Constituent Assembly over various issues strained the political
atmosphere.

Use of Executive Power:

Ghulam Muhammad's use of executive authority to dissolve the Constituent
Assembly and his assertion of power led to political turmoil and debates on the
extent of the Governor-General’s authority.

Resignation and Later Years

Resignation:
Ghulam Muhammad resigned from the post of Governor-General in 1955 due to
deteriorating health.

Legacy:
His tenure left a legacy of debates on the powers vested in the head of state and
the challenges of balancing political authority in a nascent democratic system.

Impact and Assessment

Ghulam Muhammad's governor-generalship is often viewed with mixed
perspectives. Some see his actions as necessary for stabilizing the country during a
turbulent period, while others critique his use of executive authority as
detrimental to democratic processes.
 Legacy and Aftermath
The constitutional debates and struggles during Ghulam Muhammad's tenure as
Governor-General set a precedent for the evolving political landscape in Pakistan,
influencing discussions about the balance of powers and governance structures
within the country.

1954: One Unit Policy

The One Unit Policy was a significant administrative and political reform
introduced in Pakistan in 1954. It aimed to unify the various provinces and regions
of West Pakistan into a single administrative unit.

Motivation and Context

Regional Disparities:
Pakistan, at that time, had distinct provinces and regions with varying levels of
development and representation.

Administrative Streamlining:
The One Unit Policy sought to address these regional disparities by creating a
more centralized and unified administrative structure.

Key Features and Implementation

Unification of Provinces:
The policy merged the provinces of West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) into a
single administrative unit, eradicating the separate identity of provinces like
Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (then known as the Northwest Frontier
Province), and Baluchistan.

Administrative Efficiency:
The idea was to establish a more efficient administrative system, reducing
administrative costs and creating a more centralized governance structure.

Reactions and Impact

Support and Opposition:
The policy faced both support and opposition. Supporters viewed it as a means to
promote national unity, administrative efficiency, and socio-economic
development. However, opponents criticized it for diluting provincial identities
and representation.

Impact on Provincial Autonomy:

The One Unit Policy curtailed the autonomy of provinces, leading to concerns
about the marginalization of smaller provinces and communities within the larger
administrative structure.

Dissolution and Repeal

Abolition:
The One Unit Policy was ultimately dissolved in 1970, and the provinces were re-
established, restoring their individual administrative identities.
Legacy:
The policy's legacy left a lasting impact on the administrative and political history
of Pakistan, sparking debates about regional representation, administrative
structures, and the balance of power between the center and provinces.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

The discussions and debates initiated by the One Unit Policy continue to shape
Pakistan’s administrative and political landscape, contributing to ongoing
conversations about the representation of diverse regions within the country's
governance structure.

1956: First Constitution and Iskander Mirza's Presidency

First Constitution of Pakistan

Drafting Process:
The Constituent Assembly of Pakistan formulated and adopted the country's first
indigenous constitution in 1956.

Key Features:
The constitution established Pakistan as an Islamic Republic and delineated the
fundamental rights, principles of governance, and the structure of the
government.

Iskander Mirza's Presidency

Assumption of Presidency:
Iskander Mirza served as the first President of Pakistan, assuming office in 1956
after the new constitution came into effect.
Political Environment:
His presidency was characterized by a tumultuous political climate marked by
power struggles and increasing tensions between the executive and other
branches of the government.

Political Events During Mirza's Presidency

Dismissal of Prime Ministers:
Mirza dismissed multiple Prime Ministers during his tenure, utilizing his
constitutional powers to dissolve governments, contributing to political instability.

Declaration of Martial Law:

Faced with political unrest, Iskander Mirza eventually declared martial law in the
country in 1958, leading to the end of his presidency and the imposition of a
military government.

Role and Legacy

Constitutional Crisis:
Mirza's use of presidential powers and his attempts to consolidate authority led
to a constitutional crisis and political chaos, eventually resulting in the end of the
democratic government.

Transition to Military Rule:

His actions set the stage for the eventual military takeover by Ayub Khan in 1958,
ending the era of the early republican system in Pakistan.

Conclusion
Iskander Mirza's presidency coincided with the promulgation of Pakistan's first
constitution but was marred by political instability, frequent changes in
government, and the eventual transition to military rule. His tenure set a
precedent for the fragile nature of civilian rule in the nascent democratic system
of Pakistan.

Legacy and Impact

Iskander Mirza's presidency, while short-lived, played a significant role in shaping
Pakistan's political landscape, highlighting the challenges and vulnerabilities of
democratic governance in the country's early years. His actions and the
subsequent shift to military rule had a lasting impact on Pakistan's political
history.

1958: Imposition of Martial Law

Context and Background

Political Turmoil:
Pakistan experienced persistent political instability and frequent changes in
government in the years following independence.

Iskander Mirza's Presidency:

President Iskander Mirza struggled to maintain stability, facing challenges from
various political factions and growing unrest.

Key Players and Events Leading to Martial Law

Iskander Mirza:
As President, Mirza was unable to control the political turmoil and frequent
changes in the government. His attempts to consolidate power through dismissals
of Prime Ministers contributed to the unstable political climate.

Role of Ayub Khan:

General Ayub Khan, a prominent military figure, perceived the political chaos as
an opportunity. He viewed the situation as a chance to take control and restore
order, gaining support within the military for a decisive intervention.

Declaration and Imposition of Martial Law

Role of Ayub Khan:
Utilizing the dissatisfaction within the military and with the consent of President
Mirza, Ayub Khan orchestrated a coup and declared martial law on October 7,
1958.

Constitutional Suspension:
Martial law led to the suspension of the 1956 constitution, dissolving the
government, suspending civil liberties, and vesting ultimate power in the military
leadership.

Consequences and Changes Under Martial Law

End of Civilian Rule:
The imposition of martial law marked the end of the democratic government and
the beginning of direct military control.

Suppression of Civil Rights:

Basic civil liberties were curtailed, and political activities were restricted under
military authority.

Roles and Aftermath

Iskander Mirza's Ouster:
After declaring martial law, Ayub Khan dismissed Iskander Mirza, assuming both
the presidency and the role of Chief Martial Law Administrator.

Formation of Military Government:

Ayub Khan took control, marking the start of a new era dominated by military rule
and setting the groundwork for his presidency that followed.

Legacy and Impact

The imposition of martial law in 1958 fundamentally altered Pakistan's political
landscape, leading to a prolonged period of military dominance and changing the
course of the country's governance.

Conclusion
The political history of Pakistan from its birth in 1947 to the imposition of martial
law in 1958 showcases a nation grappling with the complex challenges of nation-
building and governance. The period witnessed the fervor of independence
followed by the partition from India, leading to the creation of two geographically
separated regions—East and West Pakistan. Amidst these early years, the
leadership of figures like Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Liaquat Ali Khan attempted
to establish a framework for governance while struggling with issues such as mass
migrations, economic rehabilitation, and defining the identity of a new nation.
However, the political landscape remained volatile, marked by power struggles,
constitutional crises, and frequent changes in leadership. The adoption of the first
constitution in 1956 aimed to provide a stable governance structure, yet internal
discord, power conflicts, and regional disparities continued to destabilize the
country. The eventual imposition of martial law in 1958 by General Ayub Khan
marked the end of the fragile democratic government and set Pakistan on a path
dominated by military rule. This pivotal period laid the groundwork for
subsequent eras of military influence in Pakistan's political history, shaping the
nation's trajectory and highlighting the persistent struggle for stable civilian
governance in a nascent and evolving state.