Mohammed Ali Jinnah, Founder of Pakistan and Leader

Mohammed Ali Jinnah’s political career stretched over four decades, marked by a significant transformation from an advocate of Indian unity to a leading figure in Muslim nationalism, ultimately becoming the founder of Pakistan. Jinnah began his political journey in 1906, working for the cooperation of Hindus and Muslims while seeking Indian independence within a united framework.

In his early years, Jinnah was an effective parliamentarian; notably, he became the first Indian to successfully navigate a private member's bill through the Imperial Legislative Council in 1910. He gained recognition as a vocal supporter of Indian rights. His commitment led to the 1916 Lucknow Pact, which was a landmark agreement meant to foster a political alliance between the Indian National Congress and the All-India Muslim League. However, as time went on, the rise of Hindu nationalism and escalating communal tensions drove Jinnah to become disenchanted with the Congress. He perceived their reluctance to properly represent and protect Muslim political rights, which increasingly shifted his focus toward advocating for separate Muslim representation.

Leading the Muslim League since 1913, Jinnah played a crucial role in revitalizing it during the 1930s. Despite the Muslim League’s weak performance in the 1937 provincial elections, where the Congress maintained strong dominance, Jinnah proclaimed the League as the true representative for Indian Muslims. During the late 1920s and 1930s, his attempts to collaborate with the Congress often ended in disappointment, most notably with his rejection of the Nehru Committee proposals, while he insisted on the need for separate electorates and protections for minority rights.

A defining moment occurred during the 1940 Lahore Resolution, where the Muslim League demanded autonomous states for Muslims in northwest and eastern British India. Jinnah’s leadership during World War II and the chaotic postwar years fortified the League's standing, particularly as Congress leaders faced imprisonment, prompting many Muslims to rally around the League. As efforts to forge a power-sharing arrangement with the Congress fell through, Jinnah became resolute in seeking a separate Muslim state, culminating in the formation of Pakistan in 1947.

As the first governor-general of Pakistan, Jinnah worked to set up governance systems and tackle the immense migration crisis that arose after independence, directly overseeing refugee camps. While his political career concluded with his death in 1948, Jinnah's legacy as Quaid-e-Azam ("Great Leader") and the architect of Pakistan remains immensely respected. In fact, his journey illustrates an evolution from striving for Indian unity to forging a distinct Muslim identity and nationhood, guided by his remarkable legal expertise, steadfast devotion to Muslim rights, and shrewd political judgment among the complex dynamics of British India.

The vision for Pakistan stemmed from the belief that Muslims formed a distinct nation, according to Mohammed Ali Jinnah. He considered that Muslims deserved a place where they could thrive in their religious, cultural, and political life, separate from Hindus. This idea took shape in the Lahore Resolution of 1940, which sought a separate Muslim state. Jinnah felt this was vital to prevent the marginalization of Muslims in a Hindu-majority India.

When Pakistan was formed in 1947, Jinnah guaranteed an inclusive state that would uphold equal rights for all citizens, regardless of their religion. He stressed religious freedom, the rule of law, and unity, making it clear that he envisioned Pakistan as a democratic nation, where different communities could live in harmony while respecting Muslim identity and sovereignty.

The final year of Muhammad Ali Jinnah as Pakistan's founder and first Governor-General was filled with significant challenges and deteriorating health. After Pakistan gained independence in 1947, Jinnah faced numerous pressures, including widespread communal violence, a growing refugee crisis, the Kashmir conflict, and political instability. Despite the determination of his colleagues, effective governance was difficult during such unprecedented times.

A heavy smoker, Jinnah struggled with severe lung disease and other health issues, which worsened significantly in 1948. By early September of that year, he developed pneumonia and was flown from Quetta to Karachi for medical care. His last hours were marked by delays and difficulties, including waiting roadside in severe heat. He passed away on the night of September 11, 1948, at age 71, leaving the young nation mourning the loss of a visionary leader.