Since pre-historic times India has been inhabited by many religious communities. It was during the period of catholic Hindu religion, Sikhism developed and flourished in Punjab, passing through the high times of Mughals its development also witnessed the start of decline of Mughal empire, and invasions of Nadir Shah, Abdali etc. Amid all these confusions the Sikhs gradually achieved independence and emerged as a nation comprising of twelve Misals, which kept on fighting with each other. Then fortunately for Punjab Ranjit Singh appeared on scene, much is written on the career of this remarkable man. After Ranjit Singh Punjab gradually came under British control. But in the process of struggle and with teachings of Sikh Gurus the Sikh spirit of sacrifice did not die out. It is this spirit that has made martyrdom their nature, surely that prompted Guru Arjun Dev to Guru Gobind Singh and many others to sacrifice willingly their materials and lives. Misery and sufferings whet the courage of the brave. The Kuka movement, Akali Morcha and Gaddar party for reforms voice against the British suppression. Right from Guru Nanak Sikhs had on the one hand, to contend with the bigotry and age old prefudices of the society and on the other hand found themself face to face with military mentality and the manifested cruelties of rulers or invaders be it Mughals, Nadir Shah, Ahmad Shah Durrani, Abdali or the British. It was perhaps both these factors that gave shape and substance to the ideals of Sikhism. And the trials and tribulations that were their lot made of them one of the bravest and finest martial races of the world. Sikhs also played an important role in National Independence Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. Sikhs faced aftermath of partition courageously and resettled in India with zest and success, participating once again fully in various fields of national life.
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