Ayub Khan

Date of Birth: May 14, 1907

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: April 19, 1974

Biography

Ayub Khan, born Muhammad Ayub Khan, was a prominent Pakistani military officer and statesman who served as the second President of Pakistan from 1958 to 1969. Born into a Pashtun family, Ayub Khan’s early life was marked by his commitment to education and military service. He was commissioned into the British Indian Army during World War II and later joined the newly formed Pakistan Army after the partition of India in 1947. Ayub Khan rose to prominence when he became the Commander-in-Chief of the Pakistan Army in 1951. His leadership qualities and vision for a modernized military led him to orchestrate a coup d’état in 1958, after which he declared martial law and assumed the presidency. His tenure is noted for significant economic reforms, infrastructure development, and the controversial decision to enter into the 1965 war with India. Ayub Khan’s era is often referred to as the “Decade of Development” in Pakistan due to the rapid industrialization and economic growth that took place under his rule. However, his regime also faced criticism for autocratic governance and suppression of political dissent. He resigned from the presidency in 1969 amid widespread protests and political instability, paving the way for his successor, General Yahya Khan.

5 Interesting Facts about Ayub Khan

1. Ayub Khan was the first Pakistani military officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal.

2. He introduced the Basic Democracies system, which aimed to decentralize governance and promote local self-government.

3. Ayub Khan authored an autobiography titled “Friends Not Masters,” which gives insight into his political and personal life.

4. His regime saw the completion of the Mangla Dam and the initiation of the Tarbela Dam, key infrastructure projects for Pakistan’s water and power resources.

5. Ayub Khan’s tenure marked the establishment of Pakistan Television Corporation (PTV) in 1964, which was the country’s first television network.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ayub Khan

1. “We must develop a sense of destiny, not only as individuals but as a nation.”

2. “We are determined to safeguard our independence and sovereignty at all costs.”

3. “The people of Pakistan are capable of great things, provided they have the right leadership.”

4. “I believe in a strong and stable Pakistan, where democracy and development walk hand in hand.”

5. “Our goal is to build a modern, progressive, and prosperous Pakistan.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Ayub Khan is not well-documented, as he served during a time when the financial details of political leaders were not as publicly scrutinized as they are today. However, his family was known to be well-off, and he held significant influence and power during his presidency.

Children

Ayub Khan had several children, including: 1. Gohar Ayub Khan, who served as the Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan and later as the Foreign Minister of Pakistan. 2. Akbar Ayub Khan, who also pursued a career in politics and held various governmental positions.