Indian Independence and the Question of Pakistan
Printed Curriculum [$25]
Downloadable Curriculum [$20]
Class Set [$12.50 ea] (10 min)
Third edition.
Overview
Today, India and Pakistan face each other with hostility and suspicion. Both countries have nuclear weapons. Some experts think that the nuclear face-off between India and Pakistan makes the region the most dangerous place in the world. How did it come to this? The story behind the creation of these two countries is complex and fascinating.
Indian Independence and the Question of Pakistan probes the complex, rich history of South Asia. The end of the Second World War was also the beginning of the end for the old colonial empires. India's bid for independence from Great Britain is riveting history. Examining the debate leading up to the partition of India into two states provides insight into the historical dynamics that continue to shape India and Pakistan today and provide the backdrop for the conflict in Kashmir.
Readings
Understanding the arguments surrounding the events of 1946 requires an understanding of the historical forces that shaped India. Background readings provide an overview of the history of the subcontinent. The unit begins with an exploration of the geography and the evolution of culture in India before European political intrusion. Readings examine the origins of independence and the resulting political systems by exploring many cultural and social factors in the region. Attention is given to the role of religion in the history of that part of the world as well as the roles of Mohandas Gandhi and Mohammed Ali Jinnah. Readings provide historical context for the current conflict in Kashmir.
The Choices Role Play
In a role-play, students are placed in the roles of the Congress Party, the Muslim League, the Unionist Party, the Sikhs (Punjab), and the Cabinet Mission as they negotiate an end to British rule in India.
Lessons
The Teacher's Resource Book accompanying Indian Independence and the Question of Pakistan contains a day-by-day lesson plan and student activities.
- Day One focuses on the importance of the monsoon to the agriculture and trade that formed the basis of India's great civilizations.
- Day Two engages students in consideration of the role of Mohandas Gandhi in the struggle for independence.
- Days Three and Four feature a simulation in which students assume the role of the parties negotiating an end to British rule.
- Day Five asks students to consider the effects of partition on India and Pakistan.
- An optional reading examines one historical interpretation of the role of Mohammed Ali Jinnah in the founding of Pakistan.