Final answer:
The first state in Pakistan and western India was known as West Pakistan. The region, formed at the end of British colonialism in 1947, became part of the united Pakistan with East Pakistan, which later became Bangladesh. Kashmir remained a contested region between India and Pakistan, leading to several conflicts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first state in Pakistan and western India is known as West Pakistan, which was carved out of western India. Upon independence in 1947, Pakistan was established with two separate physical regions: West Pakistan and East Pakistan (which later became Bangladesh). These regions were united politically but separated by over 1,000 miles of Indian territory. The initial unification of East and West Pakistan was challenged by ethnic and political strife, eventually leading to civil war and the creation of the sovereign state of Bangladesh in 1972.
One of the most contentious issues during the formation of West Pakistan was the status of Kashmir. The Kingdom of Kashmir had a predominantly Muslim population and was the subject of disputes between India and Pakistan, leading to several wars and ongoing tensions influenced by both nations' status as nuclear powers.
Key Takeaways:
- The Muslim League played a critical role in establishing Pakistan (united West and East Pakistan) after the end of British colonialism in 1947.
- East Pakistan declared independence and became Bangladesh in 1972 after a devastating cyclone and political discontent.
- Kashmir remained a major point of dispute between India and Pakistan, contributing to multiple conflicts between the two nations.