Question

In 1947 these 2 nations became the first new members of the British Commonwealth since the original group in 1931.

a) India and Pakistan
b) Canada and Australia
c) South Africa and New Zealand
d) Ireland and Scotland

Answer 1

In 1947, India and Pakistan became the first new members of the British Commonwealth since 1931, following their independence from British colonial rule. The partition of India led to significant displacement and conflict, and Pakistan eventually split into Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Step-by-step explanation:

In 1947, India and Pakistan became the first new members of the British Commonwealth since the original group in 1931. The United Kingdom granted independence to India after significant anti-British protests and due to financial constraints post-World War II. The partition of India led to the creation of a central Hindu nation and Muslim Pakistan, with borders to the east and west, resulting in massive displacement and turmoil.

Following its independence, Pakistan, initially comprising East and West regions, later saw East Pakistan become Bangladesh after the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The region had already experienced significant challenges, such as the weak response from West Pakistan's government to a devastating cyclone in 1970.

As members of the British Commonwealth, India and Pakistan maintained certain formal ties with the UK, but were independent nations charting their own course, including initial efforts to remain non-aligned during the Cold War period.