First capital of Pakistan (1947–1958)
Largest city in Pakistan
Economic capital generating ~55% of national revenue
Birthplace of the Pakistan Movement's key figures
History Through the Ages
Ancient Origins
The area around Karachi has been inhabited for millennia. Archaeological sites near the city show evidence of the Indus Valley Civilization. The region was part of the ancient land of Makran and later Sindh.
Pre-British Settlement
Karachi (then called Kolachi or Kharadar) was a small fishing settlement until the late 18th century when the Khan of Kalat established a fort there. By the early 19th century it had grown into a modest port town.
British Era (1839–1947)
The British captured Karachi in 1839 before the full annexation of Sindh in 1843. They rapidly developed it as the primary port for the Indus valley hinterland, building a modern harbour, railways connecting to Punjab and the interior, and a colonial city grid. By independence, Karachi was Sindh's largest city and a major commercial port.
First Capital of Pakistan (1947–1958)
Karachi was chosen as Pakistan's first capital in 1947. Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah lived and died here. The city absorbed millions of Muhajirs (refugees from India) who transformed its character. The population exploded from under 500,000 to over a million in just a few years.
Modern Karachi
Today Karachi is Pakistan's largest city with a population exceeding 20 million, making it one of the world's largest cities. It contributes the majority of Pakistan's tax revenue and is the hub of its financial, commercial, and industrial activity. Despite security challenges in the 2000s-2010s, the city has undergone significant improvement.