100 Years History of Bangladesh

Seventy Four Info July 23, 2025 0

1920s – The Era Before Bangladesh

What we now call Bangladesh was then part of British India, known as Bengal.
It was a center for culture, education, and politics in South Asia.
The people were mostly Bengali-speaking Muslims and Hindus.
Major movements for independence from British rule were growing.

1947 – Creation of Pakistan (East and West Pakistan)

British India was divided into India and Pakistan.
Pakistan was split into West Pakistan (current Pakistan) and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh)—two regions separated by about 1,600 km of Indian territory.
East Pakistan was predominantly Bengali-speaking and Muslim but faced political and economic discrimination by West Pakistan.

1948-1952 – Bengali Language Movement

Pakistan government tried to impose Urdu as the only state language.
People in East Pakistan protested to recognize Bengali as a state language.
On February 21, 1952, police killed several protesters.
This became a symbol of Bengali nationalism; February 21 is now International Mother Language Day.

1950s-60s – Rising Discontent and Political Struggle

East Pakistanis faced political and economic neglect.
The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, became the main political party demanding autonomy.
Economic disparity grew, with West Pakistan dominating resources.

1970 – Awami League Wins Elections

Awami League won majority seats in national parliament.
West Pakistan leaders refused to hand over power.
This sparked mass protests in East Pakistan.

1971 – Bangladesh Liberation War

On March 26, 1971, Bangladesh declared independence.
Pakistan military launched brutal crackdown; war and genocide occurred.
Mukti Bahini (freedom fighters) and Indian military helped liberate Bangladesh.
War ended on December 16, 1971, with Bangladesh’s independence.

1972-1975 – Early Years of Independence

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman became the first Prime Minister.
Bangladesh faced poverty, rebuilding challenges, and political instability.
In 1975, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and most family members were assassinated in a military coup.

1975-1990 – Military Rule and Political Instability

Bangladesh experienced several military coups.
Ziaur Rahman and later Hussain Muhammad Ershad ruled as military leaders.
Democracy was suppressed; political parties operated under constraints.

1990 – Return to Democracy

Popular uprisings ended military rule.
Multi-party democratic elections resumed.
Power alternated mainly between Awami League (led by Sheikh Hasina, Mujib’s daughter) and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) (led by Khaleda Zia).

2000s – Economic Growth & Challenges

Bangladesh became one of the world’s largest producers of garments.
Poverty rates declined significantly.
Infrastructure improved, but political rivalry remained intense.
Natural disasters like floods and cyclones challenged development.

2010s – Sheikh Hasina’s Dominance

Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League won multiple terms since 2009.
Economic growth accelerated; health and education improved.
Critics say political space shrank; opposition leaders jailed or exiled.
Some human rights concerns raised internationally.

2020s – Recent Political Upheaval

In August 2024, massive student-led protests led to Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.
Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus became interim chief adviser.
Political reforms, including caretaker government plans and new parties, emerged.
Ethnic and religious minority tensions and protests increased.
National elections planned for April 2026.

Present Day (2025)

Bangladesh is a populous country (~170 million people).
It has a growing economy, mainly driven by textiles, remittances, and agriculture.
Faces challenges: political instability, corruption, environmental risks (flooding, climate change).
Cultural heritage rich: Bengali language, literature, music, and traditions.
The nation continues to strive for democracy, social justice, and sustainable development.

Summary Timeline at a Glance

Year	Event
1920s	Bengal under British India
1947	Partition: East Pakistan created
1952	Language Movement & Bengali recognized
1971	Independence after Liberation War
1975	Mujib assassination & military coups
1990	Return to democracy
2009-2024	Sheikh Hasina’s government
2024	Student uprising, Hasina resigns, interim govt formed
2025	Preparations for national elections

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