Final answer:
The Soviet-Afghan War significantly impacted Pakistan's foreign policy in the 1980s, as Pakistan supported anti-Soviet forces which influenced its relations with other countries and Islamic militants within its borders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major historical event in the 1980's that had a significant impact on Pakistan's foreign policy was the Soviet-Afghan War. When the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in 1979, Pakistan played a crucial role by supporting the anti-Communist resistance groups, including the Mujahideen, with the help of financial and military aid from the United States. These anti-Soviet groups received assistance in the form of money, arms, and surface-to-air missiles, which were instrumental in countering Soviet forces. A key connection between the CIA and Mujahideen was through a Saudi national named Osama bin Laden, which was vital for the eventual withdrawal of Soviet troops in 1989.
This involvement had long-term repercussions for Pakistan, influencing its foreign and domestic policies significantly. The support for the Mujahideen led to a strengthening of the Islamic militants within Pakistan and contributed to the rise of the Taliban. The consequences of this war spilled over into the next decades, impacting Pakistan's internal stability and its relations with both Afghanistan and the international community.