Empire 280. Partition: The Creation of Pakistan (Part 3)
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Aug 11, 2025 Joining William and Anita is Sam Dalrymple, an author specializing in the pivotal partition of India and Pakistan. He delves into Jinnah's complex journey from supporting a United India to advocating for Pakistan's independence. The discussion highlights the violent aftermath of Direct Action Day in 1946 and its consequences for communal relations. Dalrymple also explores how the partitions deeply affected identity and nationalism, particularly in the context of Bengal and eventual developments leading to Bangladesh.
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Border Visible From Space
- Sam Dalrymple notes the India–Pakistan border is visible from space, lined with heavy fencing and sensors.
- That fence physically separates peoples once intermingled and makes travel harder than visiting Britain.
Pakistan Born From Earlier Partitions
- Sam Dalrymple links the idea of Pakistan directly to the 1937 separations of Burma and Arabia.
- The separations set a precedent that made carving new boundaries politically thinkable.
Jinnah Hardened By Personal Tragedy
- Sam Dalrymple recounts that Jinnah's wife Rutty died by suicide and he 'snapped' emotionally.
- Her death deepened his distrust of shared Indian leadership and hardened his politics.
