History of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
Early Life
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a prominent Indian Muslim reformer and educationist during the British Raj,
most notably known for spearheading the "Aligarh Movement" which aimed to uplift the Muslim community
through modern Western education, advocating for their integration into mainstream society by bridging
the gap between Islamic teachings and scientific advancements, ultimately leading to the establishment
of the Aligarh Muslim University; his vision is considered a foundational element in the later development
of the "Two Nation Theory" that contributed to the creation of Pakistan. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan (born October
17, 1817, Delhi—died March 27, 1898, Aligarh, India) was a Muslim educator, jurist, and author, founder of
the Anglo-Mohammedan Oriental College at Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India, and the principal motivating force
behind the revival of Indian Islam in the late 19th century.
Political Career
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's political career focused on advocating for the rights of Indian Muslims after the 1857
rebellion, primarily by promoting modern education as a means to uplift their social and political standing,
actively defending their interests against Hindu propaganda, and eventually pushing for separate electorates
to ensure Muslim representation in government, which laid the foundation for the later "Two Nation Theory"
concept; he achieved this through establishing institutions like the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in
Aligarh and organizing the All India Muhammadan Educational Conference, significantly influencing Muslim
political thought in 19th century India.
Tomb of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
Mazar-e-Iqbal, or the Tomb of Allama Iqbal, is the burial site of Muhammad Iqbal,
Pakistan's national poet. It is a simple yet impressive mausoleum in Lahore, Pakistan,
designed in the Mughal architectural style.
