The following is a timeline of the political history of Pakistan from 1947 to 2022. For more information, see History of Pakistan or Pakistani politics. Dates preceding each entry indicate when the event took place and/or the historical significance thereof.
Early Years (1947–1958)
Pakistan’s political history began with the partition of British India into India and Pakistan in 1947. The country was immediately plunged into turmoil, as violence broke out between Hindus and Muslims. The new Pakistani government was also faced with the task of governing a population that was largely poor and illiterate. In addition, the country had to deal with the problem of integrating millions of Muslim refugees who had fled from India.
Martial Law and the Zia-ul-Haq Era (1977–1988)
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Pakistan’s third military ruler, General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, overthrew Bhutto in a coup d’état in 1977. Zia established martial law and an Islamic legal code, which he used to further consolidate his power. His regime was characterized by corruption, nepotism, and religious intolerance. In addition, Zia’s decision to support the mujahideen in Afghanistan led to an influx of weapons and drugs into Pakistan.
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Early 1990s (1990–1993)
The early 1990s were marked by a number of events that shaped the course of the country's history. Firstly, the fall of the Soviet Union had a profound impact on Pakistan, as it lost its biggest ally and source of military support. Secondly, economic sanctions were imposed on Pakistan by the United States and other Western countries due to its nuclear weapons program. These sanctions led to an economic crisis in Pakistan, which exacerbated social and political tensions within the country.
Benazir Bhutto's second term as Prime Minister (1993–1996)
Bhutto's second term as Prime Minister was marked by increased tensions with the military and a more confrontational approach to dealing with opposition parties. The economy continued to grow, but at a slower pace than in her first term. Corruption remained a major problem, and Bhutto was accused of nepotism and cronyism. In 1996, Bhutto was ousted from power by a military coup led by General Pervez Musharraf.
Nawaz Sharif's first term as Prime Minister (1997–1999)
Nawaz Sharif was elected as the Prime Minister of Pakistan for the first time in 1997. He served until 1999, when he was ousted in a military coup by General Pervez Musharraf. During his time in office, Sharif worked to improve Pakistan's relations with India and Nepal. He also signed the Chashma-Jhelum Agreement, which led to the construction of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant.
Pervez Musharraf years as President/Chief Executive (1999–2008)
Pervez Musharraf was a Pakistani general who took over the country in a coup d'état in 1999. He served as President and Chief Executive from 1999 to 2008. In 2001, Musharraf became the first Pakistani head of state to visit India in over 15 years. The two countries held peace talks and agreed to reduce the risk of nuclear war. However, relations deteriorated after the 2001–2002 India–Pakistan standoff.
General Elections 2008 & 2013, Nawaz's Second Term, PTI Government 2018-2022.
The General Elections were held in 2008 and 2013. Nawaz's Second Term was from 2013 to 2018. The PTI Government was formed in 2018 and is currently in power. The following is a timeline of the political history of Pakistan from 1947 to 2020. The timeline begins with the partition of India on 14 August 1947, when British India was divided into two countries: India and Pakistan.
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