history of Aligarh Movement

The Aligarh Movement, initiated in the late 19th century by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, aimed to promote modern education and social reform among Muslims in India. It emphasized the importance of scientific education and rational thought to uplift the community and encourage participation in British India’s socio-political landscape. Sir Syed founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in 1875, which later became Aligarh Muslim University. The movement sought to bridge the gap between traditional Islamic education and modern Western education, fostering a new educated elite that could engage with contemporary challenges and improve the community’s standing in society.