As Pakistan marks its 78th Independence Day, few may realise how the world reacted when news broke of its freedom from British rule after nearly two centuries of colonial domination. At the time, the international press prominently featured the story on front pages across the globe.
For centuries, Pakistan—then part of the Indian subcontinent—was among the crown jewels of the British Empire. This strategic region was valued not only for its rich resources and vibrant cultures, but also for its immense geopolitical importance.
Its fertile lands, abundant natural wealth, and vital trade routes made it a linchpin of British economic interests. The empire exploited these advantages to fuel its own prosperity, establishing industries, railways, and infrastructure designed primarily to serve colonial ambitions rather than local needs.
The first page of Quaid’s newspaper, Dawn, featured several headlines announcing the birth of Pakistan.
“Birth of Pakistan an event in history”
“Pakistan proves invincibility of truth”
“Pakistan Zindabad greetings”
“Dawn of freedom in Indian Union”
“May Pakistan prosper always”
“Birth of two nations”
“Soveriegn Pakistan and India born”
“2 new nations born in India as British end 200 year rule”
“Farewell and Hail”
“End of Indian Empire: Birth of Two Dominions”
“India and Pakistan celebrate”
“India Independent: British Rule Ends”
“India celebrates and Britain hands over control”
“Two Dominions are Born”
“Political Freedom for One-Fifth Human Race”
“Power Assumed by Indians”
“Joyful scenes in Calcutta”
“Ceberation by Hindus and Muslims”
“India Attains Free Status as two Dominions”
“Birth of India’s Freedom”
“Nation wakes to New Life”
“India Achieves Soverignity Amid Scenes of Wild Rejoicing”
“India Wakes to Life and Freedom”
“Nation takes pledge of dedication to service of motherland”
“Birth Of Pakistan An Event In History”
