1948 Kashmir War

The 1948 Kashmir War was a conflict between India and Pakistan over the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir after British India was divided into these two countries in 1947. The region's ruler, Maharaja Hari Singh, initially chose to remain independent but later sought military help from India when faced with an invasion by tribal militias from Pakistan. In exchange for assistance, he signed the Instrument of Accession to India. Fighting erupted, leading to a ceasefire brokered by the United Nations. The conflict resulted in a divided Kashmir, with both countries claiming the region, a dispute that persists today.