By Dr. Md. Anwar Hossain
Revolution is the primary driving force behind the evolution and progress of human civilization. It
generally refers to a radical and rapid transformation of an established social, political, or economic
system—not merely a minor reform, but a complete overhaul of the existing structure. Throughout
history, from ancient times to the modern era, people across various societies have risen against
injustice, oppression, and exploitation, thereby shaping new historical narratives.

From a historical perspective, a revolution typically begins when the accumulated grievances of the
oppressed reach a breaking point. At every stage of human development—from primitive society to
feudalism, and subsequently to capitalist society—the role of revolution has been undeniable. It does
more than just shift power; it brings about a groundbreaking and unprecedented transformation in
human thought, culture, and awareness of rights.

The history of revolution is ancient, and its impact is far-reaching. Various dates and events throughout
history stand as vivid testaments to this. For instance, the Scientific Revolution of the 17th century
dispelled blind beliefs and laid the foundation for a rational society. This momentum for social change
later paved the way for intense mass uprisings in the political and social spheres, leading to the
emergence of new governance systems.

Every revolution that has occurred across the globe has propelled society toward progress. The French
Revolution of 1789 imparted the enduring ideals of equality, fraternity, and liberty to the world. This
historic event shook the foundations of monarchical rule in Europe, paved the way for the establishment
of fundamental rights for the oppressed and marginalized, and heralded a new era for democracy
worldwide.

The economic dimension of revolution is also of immense significance, as it has fundamentally altered
the human standard of living. The Industrial Revolution, which began in the United Kingdom in the 18th
century, brought about a profound transformation in production systems. Large-scale industrial
manufacturing replaced cottage industries, propelling the global economy to new heights. This ushered
in a modern and dynamic era, transforming urban life, urbanization, and transportation systems.
A revolution is, in essence, an invincible tool for the disenfranchised—a force capable of shattering the
autocratic tendencies of those in power. A look back at history reveals that every successful revolution
has sought to break the chains of exploitation and build a progressive society. Thus, the democratic
structure of contemporary human civilization and the evolution of human rights are the collective legacy
of countless bloody yet glorious revolutions from the past.

World history is marked by several highly significant and influential revolutions. First, the Glorious
Revolution of 1688 in England curtailed the power of the monarchy and paved the way for
parliamentary democracy. Second, the American War of Independence—culminating on July 4,

1776—ended British colonial rule and gave birth to a new, independent, and sovereign state,
fundamentally altering global politics.

Third, the French Revolution of 1789 stands as an indelible chapter in European history. Fourth, the
Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, which took place on October 25, 1917, established the world’s first
socialist state. Fifth, the Xinhai Revolution of 1911 brought an end to thousands of years of imperial rule
in China. Sixth, the Chinese Communist Revolution of October 1, 1949, led by Mao Zedong, signaled the
rise of a new power in Asian politics.

Seventh, the Cuban Revolution of January 1, 1959, led by Fidel Castro, gave rise to a new socialist
consciousness in Latin America. Eighth, the Iranian Islamic Revolution of 1979 dismantled the country’s
long-standing monarchy and established a religious system of governance. Ninth, the Velvet Revolution
of 1989 brought a peaceful end to communist rule in Czechoslovakia. Tenth, the 2010 Jasmine
Revolution in Tunisia ignited a wave of anti-authoritarian popular uprisings across the Arab world.
Eleventh, the 2011 Egyptian Revolution brought an end to the long-standing autocratic rule of Hosni
Mubarak. Twelfth, the 1804 Haitian Revolution stands as the only successful slave revolt in history that
resulted in independence. Thirteenth, the May 1968 revolution in France brought about profound
cultural and social transformation.

In the political history of Bangladesh, 1975 represents an exceptionally bloody, volatile, and dramatic
chapter. On August 15, 1975, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—the architect of independent
Bangladesh—was brutally assassinated along with his family. Following this horrific massacre,
Khondaker Mostaq Ahmed declared himself President. This plunged the nation’s governance and its
military into deep chaos, mutual distrust, and extreme uncertainty.

Subsequently, amidst this power struggle, a counter-coup took place within the military on November 3,
1975, led by Brigadier Khaled Mosharraf. As a result, the then-Army Chief, Major General Ziaur Rahman,
was placed under house arrest along with his family inside the Dhaka Cantonment. On the same day, the
situation took an even more dire turn when four national leaders—who were being held in Dhaka
Central Jail—were murdered in a particularly brutal and savage manner.
A large segment of the rank-and-file soldiers perceived Khaled Mosharraf’s counter-coup as a sign of
direct interference by India and as a grave threat to the nation’s independence and sovereignty.
Between November 3 and 6, the country’s political and administrative systems completely collapsed.
During these four days, the nation was left effectively leaderless, rudderless, disoriented, and gripped by
a state of extreme terror.

During this moment of extreme crisis, the clandestine activities of the JSD-affiliated 'Revolutionary
Soldiers' Organization' (Biplobi Sainik Sangstha) and Colonel Abu Taher ignited intense resentment and a
mass awakening among the rank-and-file soldiers. They began organizing in secret with the objectives of
safeguarding the nation's independence and securing the release of Ziaur Rahman. At midnight on
November 6, the soldiers launched a coordinated mutiny, seized control of the cantonment, and
liberated Ziaur Rahman from captivity.

On the morning of November 7, soldiers and civilians took to the streets of Dhaka, marching shoulder to
shoulder and chanting slogans. This spontaneous participation by the public propelled Ziaur
Rahman—who had been under house arrest—to the very center of power. This historic and
unprecedented uprising of soldiers and the public served to protect the nation's independence and
sovereignty. It not only restored discipline within the military but also ushered in an entirely new and
dynamic phase in Bangladeshi politics.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its allies observe the events of November 7 as 'National
Revolution and Solidarity Day.' According to them, on this historic day in 1975, the nation was saved
from a deep-seated geopolitical conspiracy and the threat of hegemony. They view this day as a unique
symbol of the rebirth of multi-party democracy and the establishment of a distinct national identity in
Bangladesh.

However, there are sharp divisions and starkly contrasting perspectives regarding this historic day within
the Bangladeshi political landscape. The Awami League and its political allies refer to this day as the 'Day
of the Killing of Freedom-Fighter Soldiers.' They argue that, under the cover of this uprising, many heroic
freedom-fighter soldiers were brutally murdered within the cantonment—a dark chapter for the
military.

Conversely, the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) commemorates this day as a 'Soldiers' Mutiny' and a
historic 'Uprising of Soldiers and the Public.' According to their political analysis, it was a revolutionary
endeavor by the rank-and-file soldiers to secure their rights and challenge class-based discrimination.
Although the fruits of this movement eventually fell into the hands of an entirely different political
force—culminating in the execution of Colonel Taher—it remains clear from a historical perspective that
November 7th fundamentally altered the course of Bangladesh’s history. Following this day, the nation
moved away from one-party rule, paving the way for the restoration of multi-party political discourse
and the initiation of economic liberalization. This period played a pivotal role in restructuring state
institutions and laying the foundation for a new nationalist consciousness.

For all patriotic citizens, the core moral lesson of November 7th is the importance of remaining united
and steadfast during any national crisis. It serves as a reminder that the driving force of an independent
and sovereign state lies in its people and their collective aspirations. Even today, this spirit of solidarity
remains profoundly relevant for safeguarding the nation’s independence and repelling any form of
aggression.

The wheel of revolution turns for the sake of the people,
History is inscribed in letters of blood.
Shackles are shattered by the collective will of the masses,
A new dawn emerges, heralded by songs of victory.
The light of liberation awakens across the world,

Dispelling the dark shadows of exploitation.
Soldiers and citizens, united under a single banner,
Together, they secure the nation’s sovereignty and independence.

In conclusion, the history and significance of national revolutions—both globally and in the context of
Bangladesh—are profound and far-reaching. Every revolution propels society toward progress and
elevates public awareness regarding human rights. The spirit of November 7th teaches us the vital
importance of national unity and patriotism. However, one must be careful not to mislabel mere
conspiracies as revolutions. These historical lessons will continue to serve as an enduring source of
inspiration for building a prosperous and sovereign Bangladesh.

Writer: Essayist Literary and Fiction Writer. Email: eddanwar@gmail.com