Although it achieved independence in 1947, Pakistan still has not succeeded in integrating its diverse peoples into a nation?as its short yet turbulent history vividly demonstrates. The nation's search for stability is traced in this revised and updated introduction to Pakistan's political, economic, and social development. New chapters detail political developments since 1991, including the elections of 1993 and 1996. Economic changes, including the financial crisis that led to the fall of Benazir Bhutto's government in 1996, are given particular attention. Also included is an extensive analysis of the nuclear arms race between India and Pakistan, an issue of global concern.

Although it achieved independence in 1947, Pakistan still has not succeeded in integrating its diverse peoples into a nation. The nation's search for stability is traced in this introduction to Pakistan's political, economic and social development.