History of Bangladesh in Timeline
Bangladesh, with a population exceeding 170 million packed into just 148,460 square kilometers, is one of the world's most densely populated nations. Situated in South Asia, it shares borders with India and Myanmar, and its southern coastlines meet the Bay of Bengal. Dhaka serves as the capital and largest city, acting as a central hub for politics, finance, and culture. Chittagong, the second largest city, holds the title of the busiest port on the Bay of Bengal. Bengali is the official language, with Bangladeshi English also used in governmental and official contexts.
1901: Establishment of the Victoria Public Library
The Victoria Public Library was founded in Natore in 1901 during the British colonial period.
1904: Establishment of the Chittagong Municipality Public Library
The Chittagong Municipality Public Library was established in 1904.
February 1905: Record Low Temperature
The lowest air temperature ever recorded in Bangladesh was 1.1 °C (34.0 °F) in Dinajpur on February 3, 1905.
1905: First Partition of Bengal
The British government created the province of Eastern Bengal and Assam in 1905, sparking outrage and protests in Calcutta and the Indian National Congress.
1905: Creation of Eastern Bengal and Assam
The British government, supported by the Muslim aristocracy, created the province of Eastern Bengal and Assam in 1905, leading to increased investment in the region but also sparking unrest.
1906: Formation of the All India Muslim League
In 1906, in response to growing Hindu nationalism, the All India Muslim League was formed in Dhaka.
1906: Formation of the All India Muslim League
The All India Muslim League, formed in Dhaka in 1906, emerged as a response to the growing Hindu nationalist sentiment.
1910: Establishment of the Varendra Research Library
The Varendra Research Library was established in 1910.
1910: Establishment of the Varendra Research Museum
The Varendra Research Museum, inaugurated in 1910, holds the title of the oldest museum in Bangladesh.
1912: Reorganization of Bengal and Assam
The British government reorganized the provinces in 1912, reuniting East and West Bengal and making Assam a separate province.
1913: Formation of the Bengal Provincial Muslim League
The Bengal Provincial Muslim League was established in 1913 to advocate for the civil rights of Bengali Muslims.
1921: Establishment of the University of Dhaka
The University of Dhaka, established in 1921, holds the distinction of being the oldest university in Bangladesh.
1925: Formation of the Great Bengal Library Association
The Great Bengal Library Association was formed in 1925 to promote library development and literacy in Bengal.
1929: Formation of the All Bengal Tenants Association
The All Bengal Tenants Association was formed in 1929 to counter the influence of the Hindu landed gentry within the Bengal Legislative Council.
1931: First Full-length Feature Film in Bangladesh
The first full-length feature film produced in Bangladesh, "Last Kiss," was released in 1931 by the East Bengal Cinematograph Society.
1935: Promise of Limited Provincial Autonomy
The British government promised limited provincial autonomy in 1935 following the Morley-Minto Reforms and the diarchy era.
1937: Bengal Congress Boycotts Legislature and A. K. Fazlul Huq Becomes Prime Minister
Despite winning the most seats in 1937, the Bengal Congress boycotted the legislature, leading to the election of A. K. Fazlul Huq of the Krishak Praja Party as the first Prime Minister of Bengal.
1937: Establishment of the Bengal Legislative Assembly and Separation of Burma
The Bengal Legislative Assembly, British India's largest legislature, was formed in 1937, the same year that British Burma was separated from British India.
1940: Support for the Lahore Resolution
A.K. Fazlul Huq, then Prime Minister of Bengal, lent his support to the Lahore Resolution in 1940, a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the partition of India.
1940: Support for the Lahore Resolution
A. K. Fazlul Huq, the first Prime Minister of Bengal, supported the Lahore Resolution in 1940, which proposed independent states in the subcontinent's Muslim-majority regions.
May 1942: Japanese Bombing of Chittagong
In May 1942, the Japanese air force bombed Chittagong as part of World War II.
1943: Bengal Famine
The Bengal famine of 1943, a devastating event that claimed millions of lives, occurred during Khawaja Nazimuddin's tenure as Prime Minister.
1946: Muslim League Wins Bengal Provincial Election and H.S. Suhrawardy Becomes Premier
The Bengal Provincial Muslim League secured a resounding victory in the 1946 provincial election, the largest Muslim League mandate in British India, leading to H.S. Suhrawardy becoming the last premier of Bengal.
June 1947: Mountbatten Plan and Radcliffe Line
In June 1947, the Mountbatten Plan outlined the partition of British India. Subsequently, Cyril Radcliffe was tasked with demarcating the boundaries of Pakistan and India, resulting in the Radcliffe Line, which established the present-day borders of Bangladesh.
August 1947: Creation of the Dominion of Pakistan
The Dominion of Pakistan, with East Bengal as its most populous province and Dhaka as its capital, came into being on August 14, 1947, under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
1947: East Bengal becomes East Pakistan
Following the 1947 partition, East Bengal became East Pakistan and the most populous province in the Dominion of Pakistan with Dhaka as the legislative capital.
1947: Partition of India
In 1947, the Partition of India resulted in the creation of East Bengal as part of the newly formed Dominion of Pakistan.
1948: Publication of the First Women's Magazine in Bengal
Begum, the first magazine dedicated to women's issues in Bengal, was published in 1948, marking a significant step in feminist discourse and women's representation in media.
1949: Formation of the All Pakistan Awami Muslim League
The All Pakistan Awami Muslim League was founded in 1949.
1950: Land Reform in East Bengal
The East Bengal Legislative Assembly enacted significant land reforms in 1950, abolishing the Permanent Settlement and the zamindari system.
February 1952: Language Movement Day
In Bangladesh, Language Movement Day is observed each year on February 21st to commemorate the Bengali Language Movement of 1952.
1952: Bengali Language Movement
The Bengali Language Movement, a significant cultural and political movement, took place in 1952.
1952: Bengali Language Movement
The Bengali Language Movement of 1952 marked the first major instance of friction between East and West Pakistan.
1953: Awami Muslim League Becomes Awami League
The Awami Muslim League underwent a name change in 1953, becoming the more secular Awami League.
1954: United Front Victory and Dissolution of Constituent Assembly
The United Front coalition achieved a landslide victory in the 1954 East Bengali legislative election, leading to the dissolution of the first constituent assembly.
1954: East Bengali Legislative Election and Dissolution of the Constituent Assembly
The United Front coalition won a landslide victory in the 1954 East Bengali legislative election, and the first constituent assembly was dissolved the same year.
1956: New Constitution of Pakistan
Pakistan adopted a new constitution in 1956.
1956: First Feature Film in East Pakistan
The film "Mukh O Mukhosh" premiered in 1956, marking the first feature film produced in East Pakistan.
1958: Military Coup in Pakistan
The Pakistan Army orchestrated a military coup in 1958, leading to Ayub Khan's rule.
1958: Pakistani Coup d'état
The Pakistan Army, led by Ayub Khan, seized power in a coup in 1958, ushering in an era of increased political repression.
1959: Establishment of the Central Public Library of Dhaka
The Central Public Library of Dhaka was established in 1959 to serve as a central repository of knowledge and information in the capital city.
1962: New Constitution and Dhaka as National Assembly Seat
Ayub Khan introduced a new constitution in 1962, replacing the parliamentary system. Dhaka became the seat of the National Assembly of Pakistan.
1963: Start of Film Society Culture
The film society movement in Bangladesh originated in Dhaka in 1963, eventually leading to the establishment of the Federation of Film Societies of Bangladesh as the governing body for this cultural movement.
1965: Indo-Pakistani War
The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 disrupted cross-border transportation routes with India.
1966: Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's Six-Point Movement
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, leader of the Awami League, put forth a six-point movement advocating for a federal parliamentary democracy in 1966.
1966: Establishment of the University of Chittagong
Founded in 1966, the University of Chittagong boasts the largest campus among Bangladeshi universities.
1966: Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's Six Point Movement
Awami League leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman called for a federal parliamentary democracy in 1966 with his six-point movement.
1969: Economic Discrimination and Political Unrest
In 1969, East Pakistan faced economic discrimination from the Pakistani government, despite generating significant export revenue. Economists in East Pakistan demanded a separate foreign exchange account. The arrest of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for treason and the subsequent uprising led to Ayub Khan's resignation, but martial law was reintroduced under General Yahya Khan.
December 1970: Cyclone Devastation and Election Victory
In December 1970, a devastating cyclone struck East Pakistan, killing hundreds of thousands. The central government's response was criticized as inadequate. Following this, the Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a landslide victory in the national elections, securing a majority of seats. However, the Pakistani military and the Pakistan Peoples Party opposed their right to form a government.
1970: Devastating Cyclone
A devastating cyclone hit Bangladesh in 1970, causing widespread damage and loss of life.
1970: Pakistani General Election
The 1970 Pakistani general election, which saw the Awami League win a majority, was a key event leading up to the Bangladesh Liberation War.
1970: Aftermath of the 1970 Cyclone
The effects of the devastating 1970 Bhola cyclone continued to impact Bangladesh in the early years of its independence, adding to the challenges of reconstruction and economic recovery.
March 1971: Operation Searchlight and the Start of the War
On March 26, 1971, the Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight, targeting civilians in East Pakistan. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was arrested, and before his arrest, he declared the independence of Bangladesh. The Pakistani army engaged in widespread violence and destruction, targeting pro-independence Bengalis and the Hindu minority.
March 1971: Negotiations Fail and Independence Declared
In March 1971, negotiations regarding the transfer of power to the Awami League broke down, leading to civil disobedience in East Pakistan. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman addressed a massive rally calling for independence. On March 23, the flag of Bangladesh was raised for the first time.
July 1971: Shadhin Bangla Football Team Raises Awareness for Liberation
During the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, the Shadhin Bangla football team played friendly matches across India to raise international support for the cause. On July 26, 1971, team captain Zakaria Pintoo made history by hoisting the Bangladesh flag on foreign soil for the first time before their game in West Bengal.
November 1971: Formation of Bangladesh Armed Forces
In November 1971, amidst the Bangladesh Liberation War, the Bangladesh Armed Forces was officially established.
December 1971: India's Intervention and the Liberation of Dhaka
On December 3, 1971, India officially joined the war. Joint forces of Bangladesh and India, with air support, liberated Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, in mid-December 1971. The war ended on December 16, 1971, with the surrender of the Pakistan Eastern Command to the allied forces.
December 1971: Formation of the Provisional Government and Mukti Bahini Resistance
In December 1971, the Mukti Bahini, the Bengali resistance force, played a key role in the war effort. The Provisional Government of Bangladesh was established in exile in Calcutta, India, and the Bangladesh Armed Forces was formally established in November 1971.
December 16, 1971: Bangladesh's Independence and Status as Second Poorest Country
When Bangladesh became independent on December 16, 1971, it was the world's second poorest country.
1971: Assassination of Zahir Raihan
Zahir Raihan, a renowned Bangladeshi documentary filmmaker, was tragically assassinated in 1971.
1971: High Poverty Rate at Independence
Following its independence, Bangladesh had a high poverty rate of 80% in 1971.
1971: Establishment of the Liberation War Museum
The Liberation War Museum, established in 1971, serves as a poignant reminder of Bangladesh's struggle for independence and the tragic genocide that occurred that year.
1971: High Poverty Rate
In 1971, Bangladesh faced a high poverty rate of 80%.
1971: Bangladesh Liberation War
The Bangladesh Liberation War took place in 1971, culminating in the independence of Bangladesh.
1971: Independence of Bangladesh
Bangladesh gained its independence in 1971 after a war with Pakistan.
1971: Atrocities and Genocide during the War
During the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, widespread atrocities were committed. The Bangladesh government estimates 3 million deaths, while other estimates range from 300,000 to 500,000. The war involved systematic targeting of Bengali intellectuals and Hindus, with widespread rape used as a weapon of war.
1971: Bangladesh Liberation War
In 1971, Bangladesh fought and won its independence from Pakistan in a bloody war.
1971: Millions Displaced
Millions of people were displaced in 1971, likely due to the Bangladesh Liberation War, creating significant challenges for the newly formed nation.
1971: War Crimes Tribunal Established
The Awami League government established a war crimes tribunal to prosecute surviving Bengali Islamist collaborators for atrocities committed during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
January 1972: Establishment of Bangladesh Government and Constitution
In January 1972, the newly formed government of Bangladesh transitioned from East Pakistan, establishing its own bureaucracy, constitution, and systems. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman introduced a parliamentary republic and assumed office as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
January 1972: Mujib's Release and Return to Bangladesh
Under international pressure, Pakistan released Sheikh Mujibur Rahman from prison on January 8, 1972. He returned to a hero's welcome in Dhaka.
March 1972: Withdrawal of Indian Troops
By March 12, 1972, Indian troops, who had played a crucial role in liberating Bangladesh, fully withdrew from the newly independent nation.
August 1972: International Recognition of Bangladesh
By August 1972, Bangladesh received recognition as an independent nation from 86 countries around the world.
November 1972: Constitution of Bangladesh Adopted
In November 1972, the constituent assembly adopted the constitution of Bangladesh, establishing a secular, multiparty parliamentary democracy. Bangladesh also joined international organizations like the Commonwealth of Nations, the UN, the OIC, and the Non-Aligned Movement.
1972: Joins the Commonwealth
Bangladesh joined the Commonwealth of Nations in 1972, becoming a member of this intergovernmental organization.
1972: Bangladesh Becomes a Secular State
Bangladesh was established as the first constitutionally secular state in South Asia in 1972.
1972: Secular State Declaration and State Religion
Bangladesh's constitution declared it a secular state in 1972, guaranteeing freedom of religion while also establishing Islam as the state religion.
1972: Establishment of the National Library of Bangladesh
The National Library of Bangladesh was established in 1972 to serve as the country's preeminent library and a repository of its national heritage.
1973: Bangladesh Supports Egypt in Yom Kippur War
In 1973, Bangladesh sent an army medical unit to Egypt during the Yom Kippur War, marking the country's first instance of sending military aid overseas. This act showcased Bangladesh's support for Palestinian rights.
1973: Establishment of University Grants Commission
The University Grants Commission (UGC) was founded in 1973 through Presidential Order 10 to oversee and fund state universities in Bangladesh.
1974: Pakistan's Expression of Regret
In 1974, Pakistan formally expressed "regret" for the events that took place during the 1971 war in Bangladesh.
1974: Pakistan Recognizes Bangladesh
In 1974, under pressure from the international community, particularly Muslim-majority nations, Pakistan officially recognized Bangladesh.
1974: Economic Challenges and the Bangladesh Famine
In 1974, Bangladesh faced economic struggles due to the resettlement of millions displaced in 1971, a disrupted food supply chain, and inadequate health services. The government invited international oil companies for exploration in the Bay of Bengal, leading to the establishment of Petrobangla. The devastating Bangladesh famine of 1974 compounded these issues.
1974: Joins the United Nations and OIC
In 1974, Bangladesh became a member of both the United Nations, a global intergovernmental organization, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, an international organization representing Muslim-majority countries.
January 1975: Introduction of One-Party Socialist Rule
In January 1975, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman introduced one-party socialist rule under BAKSAL. He banned all but four state-owned newspapers and amended the constitution to consolidate his power.
August 1975: Assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
On 15 August 1975, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated during a coup. Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad, widely regarded as a traitor, briefly assumed the presidency.
November 1975: Assassination of Independence Leaders and Military Rule
On 4 November 1975, Tajuddin Ahmad, the first prime minister of Bangladesh, and four other independence leaders were assassinated. Following this, Chief Justice Abu Sadat Mohammad Sayem was installed as president, and Bangladesh was governed by a military junta for the next three years.
1975: Unrest in Chittagong Hill Tracts
An autonomy movement by indigenous people in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region led to unrest and insurgency starting in 1975.
1977: Ziaur Rahman Becomes President
In 1977, Army Chief Ziaur Rahman assumed the presidency. He reinstated multiparty politics, privatized industries and newspapers, reopened the Dhaka Stock Exchange, and established BEPZA. He also oversaw the country's second general election in 1979.
1978: Influx of Arakanese Muslim Refugees
In 1978, around 200,000 Arakanese Muslim refugees fled to Bangladesh from Burma due to a military crackdown. They were later repatriated.
1979: Second General Election
Bangladesh held its second general election in 1979 under the leadership of President Ziaur Rahman, marking a return to multi-party democracy after a period of military rule.
1980: Bangladesh in the AFC Asian Cup
In a historic moment for Bangladeshi football, the national team participated in the AFC Asian Cup in 1980, becoming only the second South Asian nation to do so.
1981: Assassination of Ziaur Rahman
President Ziaur Rahman was assassinated in 1981, and Vice-President Abdus Sattar succeeded him.
1982: BNP Governance Ends
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) governed Bangladesh until 1982 when Abdus Sattar, who succeeded President Ziaur Rahman after his assassination in 1981, was overthrown in a coup.
1982: Coup d'état and Rise of Hussain Muhammad Ershad
The 1982 Bangladesh coup d'état resulted in the overthrow of President Abdus Sattar. While Chief Justice A. F. M. Ahsanuddin Chowdhury was initially installed as president, Army Chief Hussain Muhammad Ershad became the de facto leader and assumed the presidency in 1983.
1983: Ershad Assumes Presidency
Hussain Muhammad Ershad, having already established himself as the de facto leader of Bangladesh, formally assumed the presidency in 1983.
December 1985: First SAARC Summit in Dhaka
The First SAARC Summit was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, under the leadership of President Hussain Muhammad Ershad in December 1985.
1985: Hosting the Men's Hockey Asia Cup
Beyond cricket, Bangladesh has also hosted significant events in other sports, including the Men's Hockey Asia Cup in 1985, demonstrating its support for diverse sporting disciplines.
1985: High Total Fertility Rate
In 1985, Bangladesh experienced a high total fertility rate of 5.5.
1986: Lifting of Martial Law
President Hussain Muhammad Ershad lifted martial law in 1986, which had been in place since the 1982 coup.
1988: Islam Declared State Religion
In 1988, Islam was declared the state religion in Bangladesh.
1988: Islam Declared State Religion and UN Peacekeeping
In 1988, under Ershad's rule, the Parliament declared Islam the state religion of Bangladesh. Additionally, Bangladesh dispatched its first contingent of UN peacekeepers that year.
1990: Bangladesh's Human Development Index (HDI) in 1990
Bangladesh had an HDI of 0.397 in 1990, the fourth lowest in the Asia-Pacific region.
1990: Bangladesh Joins Gulf War Coalition and Mass Uprising
Bangladesh participated in the US-led coalition to liberate Kuwait during the Gulf War in 1990. That same year, a mass uprising forced President Ershad to resign, leading to the establishment of Bangladesh's first caretaker government, led by Chief Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed, to oversee the transition to parliamentary rule.
1990: BNP Government Begins
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Begum Khaleda Zia, came into power, marking the beginning of her first term as Prime Minister.
1991: Poverty Rate Decreases
By 1991, the poverty rate in Bangladesh decreased to 44.2%.
1991: Begum Khaleda Zia Becomes Prime Minister and Economic Liberalization
Following the 1991 general election, the twelfth amendment to the constitution restored the parliamentary republic in Bangladesh. Begum Khaleda Zia became the country's first female prime minister, leading a BNP government. Her finance minister, Saifur Rahman, initiated a major economic liberalization program, opening up various sectors for investment and establishing the Chittagong Stock Exchange.
1991: Poverty Rate Decline
By 1991, Bangladesh's poverty rate had decreased to 44.2%.
1991: Deadly Cyclone
Another deadly cyclone struck Bangladesh in 1991, resulting in the deaths of approximately 140,000 people.
1992: Influx of Refugees from Burma
An estimated 250,000 refugees fled from Burma to Bangladesh in 1992 due to the Burmese government's suppression of the pro-democracy movement. Most returned to Burma by 1993.
1993: Return of Burmese Refugees
By 1993, the majority of the 250,000 refugees who fled Burma for Bangladesh in 1992 due to political unrest had returned to their home country.
May 1994: Ratification of the Rio Convention
Bangladesh ratified the Rio Convention on Biological Diversity on May 3, 1994, demonstrating its commitment to biodiversity conservation.
1994: Bangladesh Participates in Operation Uphold Democracy
In 1994, Bangladesh contributed the largest non-US contingent to Operation Uphold Democracy, a military intervention in Haiti.
1995: Decline in Total Fertility Rate
By 1995, Bangladesh's total fertility rate had decreased to 3.7.
1995: Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act
The Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act was enacted in 1995 to provide a legal framework for environmental protection and conservation efforts.
1996: End of BNP Government
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government, led by Begum Khaleda Zia, came to an end after being in power since 1991.
1996: Political Upheaval and Awami League's Return
The year 1996 was marked by political turmoil in Bangladesh, including a boycotted February election, an attempted military coup, and the establishment of a caretaker government led by Muhammad Habibur Rahman for three months. The Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, returned to power after 21 years in the June election.
1997: Quota for Women in Local Government
A parliamentary act was passed in 1997 reserving three out of twelve seats for women in every union council, promoting women's participation in local governance.
1997: Peace Accord and Continued Militarization
A peace accord was reached in 1997 to address the unrest in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. However, the region remained militarized.
1997: Silver Jubilee Celebrations and International Relations
In 1997, Bangladesh celebrated the silver jubilee of its independence. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina hosted notable figures like Nelson Mandela, Yasser Arafat, and Süleyman Demirel for the occasion.
September 1998: Severe Flooding
Bangladesh experienced its most severe flooding in modern history in September 1998, with two-thirds of the country submerged, leading to 1,000 deaths.
1998: Bangladesh Joins Convention against Torture
Bangladesh joined the Convention against Torture in 1998.
1999: Victory at the South Asian Games
Bangladesh showcased its sporting prowess by securing victory in football at the 1999 South Asian Games, highlighting the country's talent on the regional stage.
1999: International Mother Language Day
In 1999, UNESCO declared February 21st as International Mother Language Day, recognizing the 1952 Language Movement in Bangladesh.
1999: Release of "Ananta Bhalobasha"
Sohanur Rahman Sohan's film "Ananta Bhalobasha," released in 1999, marked a pivotal moment in Bangladeshi cinema by introducing Shakib Khan, who would become a major star in the industry.
1999: Bangladesh's Cricket World Cup Debut
The Bangladesh national cricket team made its inaugural appearance at the Cricket World Cup in 1999.
2000: Bangladesh Hosts the Asia Cup
Bangladesh hosted the Cricket Asia Cup in 2000, highlighting its growing influence and stature in the Asian cricketing landscape.
2001: BNP Returns to Power
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) returned to power in 2001, promising to improve the country's economic situation.
2002: Bangladesh-China Defence Cooperation Agreement
Bangladesh and China signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement in 2002.
2002: Tareque Masud Honored at Cannes
Bangladeshi director Tareque Masud received recognition at the 2002 Cannes Film Festival, earning an award from FIPRESCI for his film "The Clay Bird".
2002: Pakistan Reiterates Regret
In 2002, Pakistan once again expressed "regret" for the events of 1971 in Bangladesh.
2003: Bangladesh Wins SAFF Gold Cup
The Bangladesh national football team achieved a significant victory in 2003 by winning the SAFF Gold Cup, a testament to their progress in regional football.
2004: Start of Security and Political Problems
Bangladesh began experiencing significant security and political problems in 2004, during the BNP's second Zia administration. These problems persisted until 2006.
2004: Formation of the Anti Corruption Commission
The Anti Corruption Commission of Bangladesh was formed in 2004.
2006: Anti Corruption Commission Active During Political Crisis
The Anti Corruption Commission played an active role during the 2006-2008 Bangladeshi political crisis, indicting several politicians, bureaucrats, and businessmen for graft.
2006: Widespread Political Unrest
By the end of the BNP's term in 2006, Bangladesh was grappling with widespread political unrest, prompting the military to urge President Iajuddin Ahmed to declare a state of emergency.
January 2007: State of Emergency and Caretaker Government
In January 2007, following widespread political unrest, a state of emergency was imposed in Bangladesh. A caretaker government, led by Fakhruddin Ahmed, was installed to oversee electoral, judicial, and bureaucratic reforms. This government remained in place until December 2008.
March 2007: Execution of JMB Leaders
Leaders of the radical Islamist militant group, Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), who were responsible for a series of terror attacks, were executed in March 2007.
2007: South Asian Floods
The 2007 South Asian floods caused significant devastation in Bangladesh, displacing five million people and resulting in around 500 deaths.
2007: Establishment of the National Human Rights Commission of Bangladesh
The National Human Rights Commission of Bangladesh was established in 2007.
December 2008: End of Caretaker Government
The caretaker government, led by Fakhruddin Ahmed, which was installed in January 2007 following a state of emergency, concluded its term in December 2008, paving the way for a return to elected leadership.
2008: Female Workforce Participation Rate in Bangladesh
In 2008, the female workforce participation rate in Bangladesh was recorded at 26%.
2008: Awami League Wins Landslide Victory
The Awami League won a landslide victory in the 2008 Bangladeshi general election.
2008: Citizenship for Stranded Pakistanis
The Supreme Court granted citizenship to Urdu-speaking stranded Pakistanis in 2008.
January 2009: Awami League Returns to Power
In January 2009, the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, returned to power in Bangladesh after a landslide victory in the 2008 general election. This ushered in a period of political stability and economic growth.
2009: Energy Crisis and Poverty Reduction Efforts
In 2009, Bangladesh faced severe energy shortages, with daily blackouts being common. The government implemented anti-poverty programs, including the Ashrayan Project, to combat the poverty rate, which had significantly decreased since 1971.
2009: Launch of Infrastructure Megaprojects
Since 2009, Bangladesh has embarked on a series of ambitious infrastructure megaprojects to boost economic growth and connectivity.
2009: Initiation of Megaprojects
Starting in 2009, Bangladesh initiated various megaprojects, including the Padma Bridge, Dhaka Metro, and the Bangladesh Delta Plan, to bolster infrastructure and address climate change.
2009: Electricity Production Increase
Bangladesh's electricity production surged from 5 gigawatts in 2009 to 25.5 gigawatts in 2022, signifying substantial growth in the energy sector.
2010: Public Examinations in Bangladesh's Education System
As of 2010, the Bangladesh Education Ministry mandates public exams for progression through different educational levels: the Primary School Certificate (PSC) after fifth grade, the Junior School Certificate (JSC) after eighth grade, the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) after tenth grade, and the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) after twelfth grade, which is required for university applications, as reported by the Daily Star.
2010: Supreme Court Upholds Secular Principles
In 2010, the Supreme Court of Bangladesh reduced the scope for military intervention in politics and reaffirmed the country's commitment to secular principles enshrined in the constitution.
2010: Musa Ibrahim Conquers Everest
In a historic achievement for Bangladeshi mountaineering, Musa Ibrahim became the first person from the country to summit Mount Everest in 2010.
2010: Bangladesh Supreme Court Reaffirms Secular Principles
The Bangladesh Supreme Court reaffirmed the secular principles enshrined in the constitution in 2010.
2011: Bangladesh Co-hosts ICC Cricket World Cup
Bangladesh, alongside India and Sri Lanka, co-hosted the prestigious ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011, marking a significant moment for the nation's passion for cricket.
2012: Second Time Hosting the Asia Cup
Bangladesh once again demonstrated its capability as a cricketing host nation by organizing the Asia Cup in 2012, reinforcing its commitment to the sport.
2012: Bangladesh as Asia Cup Finalist
Bangladesh reached the final of the Asia Cup in 2012, showcasing their competitiveness in continental cricket.
2012: Domestic Tourism Dominance
Domestic spending constituted 97.7% of the direct travel and tourism gross domestic product (GDP) in 2012.
2013: Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention) Act Enacted
Bangladesh enacted its first anti-torture law, the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention) Act, in 2013.
2014: Revision of National Biodiversity Strategy
In 2014, Bangladesh was in the process of revising its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan to strengthen conservation efforts and address biodiversity loss.
2014: Bangladesh Hosts ICC World Twenty20
In 2014, Bangladesh was the sole host of the ICC World Twenty20 championship, showcasing its ability to organize and manage a major international cricket tournament.
2014: Boycott of the General Election
The 2014 Bangladeshi general election was boycotted by the BNP-Jamaat alliance, leading to political tensions.
2015: Land Administration Identified as Most Bribery-Prone Sector
In 2015, land administration was identified as the sector with the highest levels of bribery in Bangladesh, followed by education, police, and water supply.
2015: Bangladesh Reaches World Cup Quarter-Final
Bangladesh achieved a significant milestone in the 2015 Cricket World Cup by advancing to the quarter-final stage.
2015: Pakistan Denies Atrocities
In 2015, Pakistan backtracked and denied that any atrocities took place during the 1971 war.
2015: Women in Politics and Workforce in Bangladesh
By 2015, several women held key political positions in Bangladesh. Interestingly, unlike in India and Pakistan, female workforce participation in Bangladesh increases with higher education levels, highlighting a unique trend in South Asia.
2016: Secondary Education System in Bangladesh
According to Hossain in 2016, Bangladesh's formal secondary education system spans seven years, encompassing junior secondary (grades six to eight), secondary (grades nine and ten), and higher secondary (grades eleven and twelve).
2016: Third Time Asia Cup Host
Bangladesh continued its tradition of hosting major cricket tournaments by organizing the Asia Cup for the third time in 2016, solidifying its position as a key player in Asian cricket.
2016: Second Time Asia Cup Finalist
Bangladesh once again proved their mettle in the Asia Cup by reaching the final in 2016, solidifying their position as a strong contender.
2016: Rohingya Refugee Crisis Begins
Tensions between Bangladesh and Myanmar escalated in 2016 when a large influx of Rohingya refugees began crossing into Bangladesh due to violence and persecution in Myanmar.
2016: Global Slavery Index: Estimated 1.5 Million Enslaved in Bangladesh
The 2016 Global Slavery Index estimated that approximately 1,531,300 people, roughly 1% of the population, were enslaved in Bangladesh.
2016: UNESCO Recognition for Bengali New Year Parade
The Art Institute Dhaka's annual Bengali New Year parade received recognition from UNESCO in 2016, being inscribed on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
2017: Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy Semi-Final
Bangladesh demonstrated its growing prowess in international cricket by reaching the semi-final of the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy.
2017: Rohingya Refugee Influx
Bangladesh experienced a major humanitarian crisis in 2017 when an estimated 700,000 Rohingya refugees fled to Cox's Bazar from neighboring Myanmar due to ethnic cleansing in Rakhine State.
2017: Rohingya Refugee Crisis
Since 2017, Bangladesh has hosted over 700,000 Rohingya refugees, making it one of the world's largest refugee-hosting nations.
2017: Rohingya Crisis Escalates
The Rohingya refugee crisis escalated significantly in 2017, with over 700,000 Rohingya fleeing to Bangladesh.
2018: Bangladesh Women's T20 Asia Cup Victory
The Bangladesh women's national cricket team celebrated a historic triumph in 2018 by winning the Women's Twenty20 Asia Cup, defeating India in a thrilling final.
2018: Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index Ranking
Bangladesh ranked 146th out of 180 countries on Transparency International's 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index.
2018: Tourism Sector Employment
In 2018, the travel and tourism sector in Bangladesh directly provided 1,180,500 jobs, representing 1.9% of the country's total employment.
2019: Literacy Rate
Bangladesh achieved a literacy rate of 74.7% in 2019, with a notable gender gap: 77.4% for males and 71.9% for females.
2019: Bangladesh Ratifies UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
Bangladesh ratified the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in 2019.
2019: Tourism Industry Growth and Revenue
Bangladesh's tourism sector expanded in 2019, contributing 3.02% to the GDP. International tourism revenue reached $391 million.
2019: Archery Dominance at South Asian Games
Bangladeshi archers Ety Khatun and Roman Sana achieved a remarkable feat at the 2019 South Asian Games, securing gold medals in all 10 archery events, showcasing their exceptional skills and dominance in the sport.
2019: Healthcare Spending in Bangladesh
In 2019, Bangladesh allocated a meager 2.48% of its GDP to healthcare. Government healthcare spending represented 18.63% of the total budget, while out-of-pocket expenditures constituted a disproportionate 72.68%.
February 2020: Bangladesh Wins U-19 Cricket World Cup
The Bangladesh youth national cricket team secured a historic victory in February 2020 by winning the men's Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa, marking the country's first-ever World Cup win.
2020: Population Density and Fertility Rate
Bangladesh had a population density of 1,265 people/km as of 2020. The total fertility rate dropped to 2.0, signifying a significant decrease from previous years.
2020: Healthcare Statistics in Bangladesh
In 2020, Bangladesh grappled with a severe shortage of healthcare professionals, with only 5.3 doctors and six physicians per 10,000 people. The nurse-to-population ratio was equally alarming at three nurses per 10,000 people. Hospital bed availability was critically low at eight beds per 10,000 people. The year also recorded a life expectancy of 73 years (71 for males and 75 for females), a high infant mortality rate of 24 per 1,000 live births, and a child mortality rate of 29 per 1,000 live births. Maternal mortality remained a significant concern at 173 deaths per 100,000 live births.
2020: First Conviction under Anti-Torture Law
The first conviction under the Torture and Custodial Death (Prevention) Act was announced in 2020.
January 2021: Thriving Private Sector and Telecom Industry
As of January 2021, Bangladesh's private sector, dominated by family-owned conglomerates and SMEs, constituted 80% of its GDP. The telecommunications industry experienced rapid growth, reaching 171.854 million cellphone subscribers.
December 2021: US Sanctions on Rapid Action Battalion Commanders
In December 2021, the United States Department of Treasury announced sanctions on commanders of the Rapid Action Battalion for human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and torture.
2021: Bangladesh Military Budget
In 2021, Bangladesh's military budget was US$4.3 billion, representing 1.3% of its GDP.
2021: Continued Poverty Reduction and Unemployment Rate
Bangladesh's poverty rate further declined to 12.9% in 2021. The country also had an unemployment rate of 5.2%.
2021: Spot Price LNG Imports
During 2021, Bangladesh imported 40% of its LNG at spot market prices.
2021: Bangladesh's Human Development Index (HDI) in 2021
By 2021, Bangladesh's HDI had risen to 0.661, demonstrating significant progress.
2021: Significant Poverty Reduction
Bangladesh achieved significant poverty reduction by 2021, with the poverty rate dropping to 12.9%.
2021: Urbanization Rate
As of 2021, 39% of Bangladesh's population resided in urban areas.
June 2022: Padma Bridge Opens
The Padma Bridge, a mega infrastructure project connecting southwestern Bangladesh to the rest of the country, was opened in June 2022.
June 2022: Halting Spot Price LNG Purchases
In June 2022, Bangladesh ceased buying liquefied natural gas (LNG) at spot prices due to dwindling foreign exchange reserves caused by rising fuel import costs.
2022: Increased Electricity Production and Future Plans
By 2022, Bangladesh's electricity production reached 25.5 gigawatts, and the nation aimed to generate 50 gigawatts by 2041.
2022: Economic Growth and Development
In 2022, Bangladesh experienced significant economic growth, boasting the second-largest foreign-exchange reserves in South Asia. This allowed for increased government spending, particularly in the power sector. The country also achieved 100% electrification. The literacy rate reached 74.66%, and the government focused on attracting foreign direct investment and creating jobs.
2022: Bangladesh Armed Forces Personnel
In 2022, the Bangladesh Army had an active personnel strength of around 250,000, excluding the Air Force and Navy (24,000).
2022: Population Census and Demographics
The 2022 census revealed Bangladesh's population to be 165.1 million, making it the eighth most populous globally. The country had a high population density and a median age of 28 years.
2022: Bangladesh Women Win SAFF Championship
The Bangladesh women's national football team made history in 2022 by clinching the SAFF Women's Championship title, demonstrating their growing dominance in regional women's football.
2022: Bangladesh Ranked 96th in Global Peace Index
Bangladesh was ranked 96th out of 163 countries in the 2022 Global Peace Index.
2022: US Congress Resolution on Bangladesh Genocide
A bipartisan resolution was introduced in the United States Congress in 2022 to formally recognize the atrocities committed during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War as a genocide.
2022: Women's Dominance in Bangladesh's Garment Industry
By 2022, women dominated blue-collar jobs in Bangladesh's garment industry, reflecting their significant contribution to the country's largest export sector.
March 2023: Female Labor Force Participation Rate in Bangladesh
According to a March 2023 report by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, the female labor force participation rate reached 42.68%.
2023: Cyber Security Act Replaces Digital Security Act
The controversial Digital Security Act was repealed and replaced by the Cyber Security Act in 2023.
2023: Bangladesh's Ranking in the Global Innovation Index
In 2023, Bangladesh secured the 105th position in the Global Innovation Index.
2023: Dhaka Metro Opens
The Dhaka Metro, a major urban transport project, was inaugurated in 2023, improving public transportation in the capital city.
2023: Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant Nears Completion
By the end of 2023, the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, Bangladesh's first operational nuclear power facility, was nearing completion.
January 2024: Awami League Wins Fourth Term
The Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, secured a fourth consecutive term in the January 2024 Bangladeshi general election, with the Jatiya Party as the main opposition.
March 2024: Government Pledges Continued Development
In March 2024, the Bangladeshi government pledged to maintain the country's trajectory of rapid economic development.
August 2024: Sheikh Hasina Resigns
Following widespread protests against her government, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India in August 2024.
2024: Boycott of the General Election
The 2024 Bangladeshi general election was also boycotted by the BNP-Jamaat alliance, continuing the political standoff.
2041: Target for Electricity Production
Bangladesh set an ambitious target of producing 50 gigawatts of electricity by 2041.
2050: Projected Sea Level Rise Impacts
By 2050, it is estimated that a three-foot rise in sea levels will inundate approximately 20% of Bangladesh's landmass, displacing over 30 million people.