An Examination of Historical Themes in Pakistan Studies for Higher Secondary: A Comparison Between Sindh and Federal Boards

Abstract

This study critically examines the representation of historical content in Pakistan Studies textbooks prescribed by the Sindh and Federal Boards for Grade XII. It focuses on three chapters from the Sindh textbook, The Establishment of Pakistan, History of Pakistan, and Political Developments in Pakistan and compares them with the first three chapters from the Federal textbook, Ideological Basis of Pakistan, Making of Pakistan, and Constitutional Development in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Since these chapters’ address overlapping historical themes, they are collectively analyzed under the theme “Basis of Pakistan: A Controversy.” The research employs qualitative analysis to explore variations in interpretation, ideological framing, and historical emphasis between the two boards. This research paper is reinterpreted through newly developed subheadings to highlight differences in perspective and narrative approach. The findings reveal how regional and institutional contexts influence the portrayal of Pakistan’s history and identity, emphasizing the need for balanced, inclusive, and critically informed textbook narratives.