“Few individuals significantly alter the course of history. Fewer still modify the map of the world. Hardly anyone can be credited with creating a nation-state. Mohammad Ali Jinnah did all three.” - Stanley Wolpert, Jinnah of Pakistan.
These words by Stanley Wolpert encapsulate the remarkable legacy of Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan. Jinnah’s journey from being a staunch advocate of Hindu-Muslim unity to the lone voice of the Muslims of the subcontinent who led the creation of a new nation, stands as a testament to his unparalleled vision and leadership.
In his book Jinnah of Pakistan, Stanley Wolpert explores Jinnah’s role as a global figure. Many other international historians also recognise Jinnah for his determination to form a new state through peaceful negotiations with colonial powers. While historians praise his contributions not only as the founder of Pakistan but also as a global figure, they also highlight his transformation from an ambassador of Hindu-Muslim unity to a nation builder. However, different historians and world leaders have viewed Jinnah’s role, character, and personality as a global leader from varying perspectives.
The great leader played a pivotal role in creating Pakistan, and for this remarkable contribution, he is admired by historians, diplomats, and political commentators.
“Jinnah was a historic personality who is born once in a century.” - Mussolini
Mussolini acknowledged Quaid-i-Azam’s role as a global figure by calling him a once-in-a-century leader, recognising his extraordinary capabilities. During the Pakistan movement, Jinnah proved to be an iconic leader who changed the course of history, profoundly influencing global politics beyond the dynamics of South Asian politics.
As a champion of minority rights, Jinnah believed in equality, justice, and constitutional supremacy for every community. He is known for safeguarding the interests of minorities, and his speech delivered on August 11, 1947, clearly defines his vision of a secular state, where everyone enjoys religious freedom. As he said, “You are free! You are free to go to your temples. You are free to go to your mosques or to any other places of worship in this State of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion, caste, or creed-that has nothing to do with the business of the state.”
Additionally, Jinnah was the leader of the Muslims in South Asia and had clear-cut differences with the ideologies of his counterparts, Nehru and Gandhi. Despite their contrasting views about the future of post-colonial India, Jinnah’s formidable opponents could not ignore his remarkable intellect, determination, and legal brilliance. Nehru’s words reflect his admiration for Jinnah when he said, “Jinnah is one of the most extraordinary men in history.” It has been noted that their arguments and differences sometimes became contentious due to Jinnah’s unwavering determination for a separate homeland for the Muslims of South Asia. Nevertheless, Nehru openly acknowledged the significant role Jinnah played in shaping the future of India.
It was due to his pragmatic and visionary leadership qualities that historians pay high tribute to his attributes. Ayesha Jalal, a distinguished historian, in her book The Sole Spokesman: Jinnah, the Muslim League, and the Demand for Pakistan, describes Jinnah as an advocate for the interests of Muslims in India under colonial rule. She highlights his ability to navigate the complicated politics of the time and his efforts to protect the rights of Muslims in South Asia. Her words portray him as a master strategist, willing to adapt his demands based on the political realities of the time, and he achieved his objective through constitutional means.
Similarly, S. M. Burke, a famous Pakistani diplomat, professor, and author, in his book Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah: His Personality and His Politics, provides a comprehensive analysis of Jinnah’s personality and political philosophy. He delves into the various aspects of his life, portraying him as a charismatic figure who never compromised his principles and adhered to constitutionalism. He also praised Jinnah’s oratory skills, legal brilliance, and the way he dealt with his counterparts and the colonial government. As he said, “Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah was a luminary in three walks of life: he was one of India’s leading legal practitioners, one of India’s leading legislators, and one of India’s leading politicians.”
Moreover, Hector Bolitho, Jinnah’s official biographer, in his work Jinnah: Creator of Pakistan, provides a comprehensive account of the life of the great leader. He describes Jinnah as an unwavering and determined leader who, despite his poor health and the hardships of the time, remained firm in his resolve to achieve a separate homeland for the Muslims of South Asia.
Another famous historian, Patrick French, in his Liberty or Death: India’s Journey to Independence and Division, views Jinnah as a champion of the rights of Muslims in India and a pragmatic leader who altered the history of India and reshaped the history of the world.
Beverley Nicholas, a British author and journalist, in his famous book Verdict On India, referred to him as “the most important man in Asia.” He sees Jinnah as a significant figure in Asia because of his pivotal role in reshaping the history of the people of South Asia and for remaining determined to his values and principles.
Quaid-i-Azam was equally praised by both friends and foes, not only as the founder of Pakistan but as a global leader. He holds a distinct position in the annals of history. His style of leadership serves as an excellent approach to achieving desired goals. He established Pakistan on the foundations of justice, equality, and freedom for all. His ideas continue to be praised and debated for the protection of minority rights and nation-building. He was, without a doubt, a great orator, and his speeches had a profound impact on his audience. In the end, it can be inferred that his emphasis on democracy and constitutionalism makes him one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century.