Establishing the nation, 1947–48

What the syllabus asks of you

• How successful was the establishment of an independent nation between 1947 and 1948?
• What immediate problems faced Pakistan in the establishment of an independent nation?
• How successful were their attempts to solve these problems?
• How important was the role of Jinnah in solving these problems?
• outcome of the Radcliffe Award and reactions of the Pakistan and Indian governments to it. Impact on Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs
• the Canal Water Dispute, its course and resolution
• the role of UN mediation
• the division of assets between Pakistan and India
• an overview of problems with the Princely States (especially Jammu and Kashmir)
• the refugee and accommodation crisis
• economic, social and administrative problems
• the issue of national language
• India’s reactions to these problems and their on- going significance in later tensions/wars with India (See also below under Key Question 16.)
• an assessment of Jinnah’s role and achievements as Governor-General.