Chapter 2
History of Bangladesh
Subject: BGS
Overall Summary: The history of Bangladesh is rich and complex, with roots in ancient times
and various dynasties ruling the region. It culminated in the establishment of Bangladesh as an
independent state in 1971.
Historical Timeline of Bengal:
Ancient Era Prehistoric Settlements:
Evidence of human settlements in regions like Rangamati, Sitakunda, and Cumilla, with
archaeological findings of stone tools.
Notable Cities: Mahasthangarh (Pundranagar), established in the 4th century BC, is a significant
ancient city.
Political History Maurya Dynasty: The first significant political entity in Bengal, with Emperor
Ashoka's inscriptions indicating his rule over Pundranagar.
Gupta Period: Important for understanding Bengal's history, with Pundravardhan Bhukti under
Gupta control.
Later Dynasties:
Pala Dynasty: Founded by Gopala, ruled for about 400 years, promoting political stability and
cultural flourishing.
Sena Dynasty: Followed the Pala dynasty, with notable rulers like Vijaya Sen, Ballal Sen, and
Laxman Sen.
Muslim Rule in Bengal
Turkish Conquest (1204 AD):
Initiated by Ikhtiar Uddin Mohammad Bakhtiar Khalji, leading to the establishment of Muslim
rule.
Ilyas Shahi and Hussain Shahi Dynasties: Ruled independently for 200 years (1338-1538 AD).
Mughal Era: Began in 1526, with initial resistance from local landlords (Twelve Bhuiyan) before
solidifying control after the Battle of Palashi in 1757.
Colonial Period British Rule
Star of Colonial Period: Started with the British East India Company exploiting Bengal from
1757, leading to direct rule by the British crown after the Sepoy Revolution in 1857.
Resistance Movements: Included the Fakir Sannyasi Rebellion, Sepoy Revolution, Quit India
Movement, and others against British exploitation.
Partition of India (1947): Resulted in the creation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), which
faced exploitation from West Pakistan.
Liberation War and Independence Struggle for Rights
East Pakistan's people united against West Pakistani oppression, leading to a declaration of
independence on March 26, 1971.
Liberation War: A nine-month-long conflict that resulted in the establishment of Bangladesh on
December 16, 1971.
Cultural and Socio Economic Life
Art and Education:
Artistic Flourishing: Gupta and Pala periods noted for unique art styles, with renowned sculptors
like Dheeman and Beetpal.
Education: Flourished in viharas, teaching subjects like medicine, grammar, and astrology,
indicating advanced educational practices.
Economy Agriculture: The primary economic activity, with paddy as the main crop and
significant production of sugarcane, cotton, and fruits.
Trade and Commerce: Thrived due to surplus agricultural production, with river ports like
Uari-Bateshwar and Pundranagor serving as major trade centers.
Religion Buddhism: Dominant during the Pala period, supported by emperors, fostering a
culture of religious harmony.
Key Takeaways:
The history of Bangladesh is marked by a succession of dynasties, each contributing to the
region's political, cultural, and economic development.
The struggle for independence from British colonial rule and the subsequent liberation war are
pivotal events in the formation of modern Bangladesh.
The rich cultural heritage, including advancements in art, education, and agriculture, reflects the
historical significance of Bengal in the broader context of South Asian history.
