A New Dawn: Shared by Scotland and Pakistan: Reflections on August 1997

Abstract

August 1997 was a month to remember for both Pakistan and Scotland. Fifty years ago the Indian subcontinent achieved independence from Britain and two new sovereign states Bharat and Pakistan * appeared on the map of the world. The anniversary of the creation of Pakistan was a time for remembrance of the many people who suffered and died in the tragic aftermath of Partition, but also for celebration of the ways in which the people of Pakistan have shown their indomitable spirit and enterprise in their homeland, and in their migrations to other countries, especially Britain. At the same time, Scotland was preparing for the vote which would restore the Scottish Parliament lost in 1707 through the Act of Union with England. The memories of Pakistanis and Scots were keen throughout this month August was a time when many people were thinking hard about the past and the future.