The Partition of India in 1947: The Height of Ethnic Displacement - Wellesley COA

"Content Warning: This program contains discussions of topics and themes that some viewers may find upsetting. Viewer discretion is advised.
At midnight, on August 14, 1947, the British colonial power— the Raj—partitioned the vast territory of India into two separate dominions—Hindu India and Muslim Pakistan. Horrific sectarian violence, religious cleansing, and massive refugee crises imme- diately ensued, as desperate Hindus fled Pakistan and desperate Muslims fled India. An estimated 1-2 million people died, and an estimated 14-18 million people were displaced. The violent nature of the partition created an atmosphere of hostility and suspicion between India and Pakistan that persists today. The presentation will explore the background, the violence, and the enduring impact of this monumental tragedy."