Complete history of Pakistan

 Pakistan, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, is a country located in South Asia. With a rich history that spans over thousands of years, Pakistan has a diverse and fascinating cultural heritage. From the Indus Valley Civilization to the Mughal Empire and the British colonial era, Pakistan has seen many civilizations come and go. In this blog, we will take a look at the complete history of Pakistan timewise, with a focus on the social, cultural, economic, education, and religious aspects of each period.

Prehistoric Period (up to 3300 BCE)

Pakistan's prehistoric period is dominated by the Indus Valley Civilization, which emerged around 2600 BCE. The civilization was located in the region of the Indus River and its tributaries, which cover parts of modern-day Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan. The Indus Valley Civilization is one of the oldest and most advanced civilizations in the world. They had a sophisticated urban culture, advanced technology, and a system of writing that has not yet been deciphered. The civilization declined around 1900 BCE, possibly due to environmental changes or invasion by nomadic tribes.

Social: The Indus Valley Civilization was divided into social classes, with the ruling elite living in luxurious houses and the common people living in more modest homes.

Cultural: The Indus Valley Civilization had a rich culture, with evidence of sophisticated art, music, dance, and literature. They had a deep respect for nature and worshipped many gods and goddesses.

Economic: The Indus Valley Civilization was an important center of trade, with merchants trading goods such as textiles, metals, and precious stones with neighboring regions.

Education: The Indus Valley Civilization had a system of education, with children attending schools and learning skills such as reading, writing, and mathematics.

Religion: The Indus Valley Civilization had a polytheistic religion, with many gods and goddesses worshipped. They also had a belief in the afterlife and practiced burial rituals.

 

Vedic Period (1500 BCE - 600 BCE):

The Vedic period, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, was the first known civilization in the region that is now Pakistan. This period saw the emergence of the Indus Valley Civilization, which is considered one of the oldest civilizations in the world. The civilization was known for its advanced urban planning, sophisticated drainage system, and the development of the first writing system, the Indus script. The Indus Valley Civilization was a hub of trade and commerce, and its people traded with Mesopotamia and other regions.

Social life: The people of the Indus Valley Civilization lived in well-planned cities, with sophisticated drainage and sewage systems, which suggest a high level of social organization. People had different occupations, and social hierarchies existed based on occupation and wealth.

Cultural life: The Indus Valley Civilization was known for its unique art and craft, including pottery, sculpture, and jewelry. The civilization had its own religion, which is believed to have been a precursor to Hinduism.

Economic life: The Indus Valley Civilization was an advanced center of trade and commerce, with its people trading with other civilizations in the region.

Education: The Indus Valley Civilization had a well-developed system of education, with evidence of schools and teachers found in excavations.

Religious life: The Indus Valley Civilization had its own religion, which was polytheistic and worshiped a variety of deities.

Gandhara Period (600 BCE - 550 CE)

The Gandhara period was an important era in the history of Pakistan. It was during this time that Buddhism spread throughout the region, leaving a lasting impact on the culture and society of the area. The Mauryan Empire was the dominant power during this time, and it is believed that the famous king Ashoka visited the region and built several stupas and monasteries. The art and architecture of the Gandhara period were heavily influenced by the Greeks, and some of the most famous Buddhist relics were created during this time. The society was primarily agrarian, and trade with the Greeks and the Central Asian states flourished during this period.

Social life: The society was divided into various castes and had a hierarchical structure. The caste system was prevalent, and people were born into their caste. The society was patriarchal, and women were considered inferior to men.

Cultural life: The Gandhara art and architecture of this period were heavily influenced by the Greeks. Buddhist relics, including the famous Buddha statues, were created during this period.

Economic life: The economy was primarily based on agriculture. Trade with the Greeks and the Central Asian states flourished during this period.

Education: The society was not highly literate, and education was limited to a few privileged individuals.

Religious life: Buddhism was the dominant religion during this period, and several stupas and monasteries were built.

After the Gandhara period, the region that is now Pakistan saw the arrival of several empires and dynasties that left their mark on the region's history.

Islamic Period (711 CE - 1526 CE)

The Islamic period in Pakistan's history began with the Arab conquest of Sindh in 711 CE. The Arab rule was later replaced by the Turkish Ghaznavids, who established an Islamic empire in the region. The Ghaznavids were succeeded by the Ghurids, who ruled until the arrival of the Mughals in the early 16th century. During this period, Pakistan saw the rise of Islam as the dominant religion and the development of a distinct Islamic culture.

Social Life: The Islamic period saw the spread of Islam and the establishment of Islamic culture and traditions in Pakistan. Society was organized on the basis of religious beliefs, and the Islamic way of life became the norm.

Cultural Life: The Islamic period saw the flourishing of Islamic art and architecture in Pakistan. The region saw the construction of several iconic structures, including the Shah Faisal Mosque and the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore.

Economical Life: During this period, Pakistan's economy was based on agriculture and trade. The region was a center of trade and commerce, and merchants from across the world came to the region to buy and sell goods.

Educational Life: The Islamic period saw the establishment of several Islamic schools, or madrasas, in Pakistan. These schools played a key role in the spread of Islamic knowledge and education in the region.

Religious Life: The Islamic period saw the rise of Islam as the dominant religion in Pakistan. Islamic scholars and theologians played a key role in spreading Islamic knowledge and teachings throughout the region.

Mughal Period (1526 CE - 1858 CE)

The Mughal period in Pakistan's history began with the arrival of the Mughals in the early 16th century. The Mughals ruled over a vast empire that included Pakistan, India, and parts of Afghanistan. During this period, Pakistan saw the emergence of a distinct Mughal culture and the development of several iconic structures, including the Taj Mahal in India.

Social Life: The Mughal period saw the emergence of a distinct Mughal culture in Pakistan. Society was organized on the basis of the Mughal social hierarchy, which placed the emperor at the top.

Cultural Life: The Mughal period saw the development of several iconic structures in Pakistan, including the Lahore Fort and the Shalimar Gardens. The region also saw the flourishing of Mughal art and literature.

Economical Life: The Mughal period saw the expansion of trade and commerce in Pakistan. The region was a center of trade and commerce, and merchants from across the world came to the region to buy and sell goods.

Educational Life: The Mughal period saw the establishment of several schools and colleges in Pakistan. These institutions played a key role in the spread of knowledge and education in the region.

Religious Life: The Mughal period saw the emergence of a distinct Mughal Islamic culture in Pakistan. The region saw the construction of several iconic Islamic structures, including the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore.

Colonial Period (1858 CE - 1947 CE) The colonial period began in 1858 when the British East India Company handed over control of the Indian subcontinent to the British Crown. This period saw the consolidation of British rule over the region, including modern-day Pakistan. The British introduced modern institutions such as a railway system, a modern postal system, and a legal and administrative framework. The region was also used for the production of raw materials for British industries. However, this period was marked by exploitation and oppression of the local population, leading to various movements for independence.

Social Life: The colonial period saw the emergence of a new social class system in Pakistan, with the British at the top and the native population at the bottom. The British introduced a new education system that favored English language and Western education, leading to the formation of a new educated middle class. However, the majority of the population remained illiterate and impoverished.

Cultural Life: The colonial period witnessed the decline of traditional cultural practices and the emergence of a new hybrid culture. The British introduced their culture and values, including sports such as cricket and hockey, which are now popular in Pakistan.

Economical Life: The economy was mainly agricultural, with cotton being the main crop produced for export. The British introduced a cash crop system that led to the displacement of local farmers and the exploitation of their labor. The period also saw the emergence of a new industrial class, mainly composed of non-Muslims.

Education: The British introduced a modern education system that favored English language and Western education. The emphasis was on producing a new class of English-educated professionals who could help run the colonial administration.

Religious Life: The colonial period saw the emergence of new religious movements, such as the Deobandi and Barelvi schools of thought in Sunni Islam. This period also witnessed the rise of the Ahmadiyya movement, which was declared non-Muslim by the government of Pakistan after independence.

Post-Independence (1947-1958):

Pakistan was formed on August 14, 1947, after the British Indian Empire was partitioned into two independent states – India and Pakistan. The period after independence was marked by the struggle to establish a new nation, infrastructure development, and the integration of refugees into the new society. The country was faced with enormous challenges, including the rehabilitation of refugees, organizing government institutions, setting up industries, and building a national identity.

Social Life:

The society of Pakistan during the post-independence era was deeply divided, with numerous ethnicities and religious groups. The resettlement of millions of refugees and the establishment of a new country was an enormous challenge that resulted in social, economic, and political turmoil. The country was divided into two parts – East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh) and West Pakistan, which were geographically separated by India. This division resulted in different cultures and languages in the two regions.

Cultural Life:

Pakistan has a diverse culture, influenced by various civilizations and religions, including the Indus Valley civilization, Islamic empires, and the British Empire. The post-independence period witnessed the emergence of a new cultural identity for Pakistan, with a renewed emphasis on Islamic traditions and values. The country's cultural landscape includes music, dance, literature, art, and architecture, which have evolved over time and continue to thrive.

Economical Life:

During the post-independence period, Pakistan was faced with numerous economic challenges, including rebuilding infrastructure, expanding industries, and creating employment opportunities. The country's economy was primarily based on agriculture, with cotton being the primary cash crop. The government launched various initiatives to promote industrial development, such as the establishment of industrial estates and free trade zones. These efforts led to the growth of industries and increased employment opportunities.

Educational Life:

Education has always been an essential part of Pakistani society. During the post-independence period, the government recognized the importance of education in nation-building and established several educational institutions. The government also took measures to promote literacy, such as setting up schools and offering scholarships to underprivileged students. The period also saw the establishment of several universities, including the University of Punjab and the University of Karachi.

Religious Life:

Pakistan is an Islamic republic, with Islam being the dominant religion. The post-independence period saw the establishment of various Islamic institutions, including madrasas and Islamic universities. These institutions promoted Islamic values and traditions, and played a significant role in the religious life of Pakistan. The period also saw the emergence of several religious political parties, such as the Jamaat-e-Islami and the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam.

Ayub Khan Era (1958-1969)

General Ayub Khan was a former army commander and became the President of Pakistan in 1958 after a military coup. Ayub Khan introduced a new constitution in 1962 which paved the way for a presidential form of government in the country.

Social Life: During Ayub Khan's era, Pakistan saw a lot of changes in terms of social life. One of the major achievements was the establishment of the Family Planning Association of Pakistan in 1953 which aimed to control the rapid population growth of the country.

Cultural Life: The 1960s was a time of cultural revolution in Pakistan. The country saw the emergence of new forms of music, art, and literature. This era saw the rise of prominent poets such as Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Ahmed Faraz.

Economical Life: Ayub Khan's era saw an overall growth in the economy of Pakistan. The country saw a significant increase in industrialization and a rise in per capita income.

Education: Ayub Khan's government put a lot of emphasis on education. The country saw a significant increase in the number of schools, colleges, and universities during his era.

Religious Life: Ayub Khan's regime was marked by a secular outlook towards religion. However, he did introduce the Islamic ideology as a central component of the national curriculum.

The Bhutto Era (1971-1977)

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was a popular political leader who founded the Pakistan People's Party (PPP). He served as the President of Pakistan from 1971-1973 and later became the Prime Minister.

Social Life: The Bhutto era was marked by the implementation of various social reforms. The most significant of these was the land reforms act, which aimed to provide land to the landless peasants.

Cultural Life: The Bhutto era saw the rise of a new wave of Pakistani cinema. Films such as "Zinda Laash" and "Shaheed" became popular among the masses.

Economical Life: Bhutto's regime was marked by economic instability. The country saw a rise in inflation and unemployment during his era.

Education: Bhutto's government made significant strides in education. The country saw the establishment of several new universities and colleges during his regime.

Religious Life: Bhutto's government made significant efforts to promote Islamic ideology. He declared Ahmadis as non-Muslims and declared Friday as a weekly holiday.

Zia-ul-Haq Era (1977-1988):

Zia-ul-Haq, a military dictator, came into power after overthrowing the civilian government in 1977. During his regime, he implemented Islamic laws and policies, which had a significant impact on the country's social, cultural, and religious life. Pakistan saw an increase in religious extremism and sectarian violence during this period. The economy was struggling, with high inflation and a large trade deficit. However, the government invested heavily in the education sector, and there was a significant expansion of educational institutions, including the establishment of several universities.

Post-Zia Period (1988-1999):

After Zia-ul-Haq's death in a plane crash in 1988, democratic rule was restored in Pakistan. The country experienced a period of political instability with frequent changes in government. The economy remained weak, with high levels of inflation and unemployment. However, there were some significant developments in the education sector, including the establishment of more universities and the introduction of new programs in technical and vocational education.

Pervez Musharraf Era (1999-2008):

In 1999, Pervez Musharraf, the chief of the army, seized power in a bloodless coup. During his regime, the country saw significant economic growth, with an average GDP growth rate of 7%. The government initiated several development projects, including the construction of highways and the establishment of special economic zones. However, there was also a rise in religious extremism and terrorism, which led to the country's isolation in the international community. The education sector saw some progress, including an increase in literacy rates, but there were also concerns about the quality of education.

Post-Musharraf Period (2008-2018):

After Musharraf's resignation in 2008, democratic rule was restored. The economy faced several challenges, including high inflation and a large trade deficit. The government launched several initiatives to address these issues, including the establishment of special economic zones and investment in the energy sector. The education sector also saw some progress, with an increase in enrollment in primary and secondary education. However, there were concerns about the quality of education and the high dropout rates.

Imran Khan Era (2018-Present)

In 2018, Pakistan saw a new leader take the helm of the country as Imran Khan became the Prime Minister. His rise to power was marked by a populist movement that emphasized his previous career as a cricketer and his commitment to anti-corruption efforts.

Conclusion

The history of Pakistan is a complex and diverse one, shaped by a wide range of social, cultural, economic, educational, and religious factors. Despite facing significant challenges throughout its history, the country has managed to overcome many obstacles and make progress in a number of areas. However, there is still much work to be done to address the many challenges facing Pakistan today.