The Partition of India in 1947

The Height of Ethnic Displacement: At midnight on August 14, 1947, the British colonial power —the Raj—partitioned the vast territory of India into two separate dominions—Hindu India and Muslim Pakistan. Horrific sectarian violence, religious cleansing, and massive refugee crises immediately ensued, as desperate Hindus fled Pakistan and desperate Muslims fled India. An estimated 1-2 million people died, and an estimated 14-18 million people were displaced. The violent nature of the partition created an atmosphere of hostility and suspicion between India and Pakistan that persists today. Dr. Lawrence Lowenthal will explore the background, the violence, and the enduring impact of this monumental tragedy.

Lawrence Lowenthal received his Ph.D. in English from New York University. He has taught at the college-level, served in the Israeli Army, writes about human rights issues, hosted a local radio show, and lectures on a variety of topics in the Greater Boston area.

Open to out-of-town seniors for $5

* Friends of the Acton COA provides financial assistance for this event