Muhammad Ali Jinnah (1876-1948) envisioned a nation where free individuals could live according to the principles of Islam, embracing social justice and a culture of freedom. He embarked on this journey with Gandhi, eventually leading to the establishment of the state of Pakistan after liberating it from British rule.
Today, when one thinks of Pakistan, it is often associated with terrorism and unrest. However, it was Jinnah who united Indian Muslims, advocating for an independent Pakistan separate from India to serve the interests of Muslim communities. Born to a Muslim merchant, Jinnah initially practiced law and later became a prominent lawyer and judge in England. He joined the Muslim League in 1913, representing Muslims in the country, and became a member of the Indian National Congress.
Jinnah believed fervently, much like his comrade Gandhi, that followers of different faiths could coexist harmoniously under one roof. Yet, Hindu neglect of Muslim social life and constant threats escalated tensions.
Hindus and Muslims found common ground in opposing their common oppressors, the British. Watching from afar in London, Jinnah answered the call to return and engage in political activism in 1935. The success of the Congress in the 1937 elections, held under the promised framework of local special elections, led to the establishment of Hindu-led local governments in seven out of eleven regions. The Muslim minority status catalyzed the movement towards separation and division.
In 1940, the All-India Muslim League convened, vocalizing the demand for Pakistan, stating that Muslims have no friend but fellow Muslims. Jinnah and his colleagues advocated for a liberal constitution to address the nation's financial and national issues. After Gandhi's initiation of the famous civil disobedience movement following World War II, and the complete takeover of Congress, Jinnah acquiesced to the Indian Union, transforming the Pakistan demand into a feasible political project.
Jinnah was instrumental in negotiations in England. On August 14, 1947, following Britain's recognition of Pakistan's independence, both Pakistan and India were born on the same day.
Jinnah became Pakistan's first Governor-General and the President of the Constituent Assembly. Pakistan finally found its place on the world map, but the transition was incredibly challenging. Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs clashed, resulting in a relentless migration and wars between the two nations.
The name "Pakistan" was first coined by Muslim students studying in England in 1940. It is derived from the initials of Punjab, Afghan, Kashmir, Sindh, and Balochistan, with "stan" meaning "land of" in Urdu.
Jinnah was deeply influenced by Atatürk. He considered Atatürk a shining star illuminating the path to a new destiny for Islamic communities. He expressed admiration for Atatürk, stating, "In the person of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the Islamic world has lost a great leader who, I believe, was specially raised up by God to guide the destinies of his people."
At one point, Jinnah withdrew from politics and settled in London. He avidly read Armstrong's book, "Grey Wolf: The Life of Kemal Atatürk," for two days straight and then passed it on to his daughter. Jinnah also remarked about Atatürk, "He proved that he had the power to make the voice of the Muslims heard throughout the world by saving Turkey.
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