Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

Independence Day Award Ribbon (Bangladesh)

Residence of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman front view

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Dhaka Wanderers jersey in 1940

Gandhi Suhrawardy and Mujib

Sheikh Mujib and Begum Mujib circa 1955

Front View of Rose Garden Place

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (17 March 1920 – 15 August 1975) was a Bangladeshi statesman and the founding leader of Bangladesh, serving as the first President of Bangladesh and later as the Prime Minister from 1972 until his assassination in 1975. He is popularly dubbed as the "Father of the Nation" in Bangladesh. His leadership in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 led to the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan.

Early Life and Education

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was born in Tungipara, a village in Gopalganj District in the province of Bengal in British India (now in Bangladesh). He was educated at the University of Dhaka, where he became involved in political activism, joining the All India Muslim League and later the Awami League, where he played a key role in advocating for the autonomy of East Pakistan.

Political Career

Mujib's political career was marked by his advocacy for democracy and Bengali nationalism. He rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s in the Awami League, pushing for greater autonomy for East Pakistan. His leadership in the 6-point movement, which demanded more autonomy for East Pakistan, and his role in the 1970 general elections, where the Awami League won a landslide victory, set the stage for the events leading to the Bangladesh Liberation War.

Bangladesh Liberation War

In 1971, following the refusal of the Pakistani military junta to recognize the election results, a brutal military crackdown ensued, leading to the Bangladesh Liberation War. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared Bangladesh's independence on 26 March 1971, before being arrested by Pakistani forces. Despite his imprisonment, the declaration sparked a nationwide war for independence, which, with support from India, led to the creation of the independent state of Bangladesh.

Leadership of Bangladesh

After the independence of Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman became the country's first president and later its prime minister. His tenure was marked by significant challenges, including political unrest, economic difficulties, and famine. His policies aimed at rebuilding the war-torn country and establishing a socialist economy. However, his administration faced criticism for authoritarian practices, including the establishment of a one-party state under the BAKSAL in 1975.

Assassination

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's life was tragically cut short when he and most of his family were assassinated on 15 August 1975 by a group of junior army officers. His death plunged the country into political chaos and led to a series of military coups.

Legacy

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's legacy is a subject of reverence and controversy in Bangladesh. He is celebrated for his role in the country's independence and is honored with the title of "Father of the Nation." His leadership and vision for Bangladesh continue to inspire and influence the political landscape of the country.