Shah Abdul Hamid facts for kids

Shah Abdul Hamid (Bengali: শাহ আব্দুল হামিদ; 1900 – May 1, 1972) was an important person in Bangladesh's history. He was a political activist, a member of the Awami League political party, a lawmaker, and a banker. He helped shape the new nation of Bangladesh.

Shah Abdul Hamid's Early Life

Shah Abdul Hamid was born in a Muslim family in 1900. His village was Khalshi, located in Gobindaganj, which is now part of Gaibandha, Bangladesh. His parents were Hazi Abdul Gafur Shah and Rahima Khatun.

He studied at Carmichael College in Rangpur. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1920. Later, in 1927, he got a law degree from Calcutta University. After finishing his studies, he started working as a lawyer in Gaibandha.

Joining the Freedom Movement

Shah Abdul Hamid was very active in movements for freedom. He joined the Non-Cooperation Movement. This movement was started by a leader named Chitta Ranjan Das. He also took part in the Law Defying Movement in 1930. These movements aimed to challenge British rule.

His Professional Work

After his education, Shah Abdul Hamid returned to Gaibandha. He became a sports organizer and was the General Secretary of the Gaibandha Town Club. He also helped start Gaibandha College in 1947. He became the first Secretary of its managing committee. In 1949, he was chosen as the Chairman of the Rangpur School Board.

He was also involved in theater. He performed on stage with the "Jeorge Coronation Dramatic Club." This club is now known as Gibandha Nattya Sangstha. From 1951 to 1955, he served as a Director of the National Bank of Pakistan.

His Political Journey

Shah Abdul Hamid had a long and important political career. In 1936, he joined the Muslim League. He was elected Vice Chairman of the Rangpur District Board in 1941. He held this position for 12 years.

In 1945, he was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of India. This was a significant role before India and Pakistan became separate countries.

Joining the Awami League

In 1956, he joined the Awami League party. He became the President of the Rangpur Awami League. He led the party in Rangpur until 1966.

In 1970, he was elected to the National Assembly of Pakistan. He represented the Rangpur V area. When the Liberation War of Bangladesh began, he went to India. He played a very important role in organizing the resistance movement against the Pakistani army.

First Speaker of Bangladesh

After Bangladesh gained independence, Shah Abdul Hamid made history. He became the first Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad. The Jatiya Sangsad is the National Assembly of Bangladesh. He served as Speaker from April 10, 1972, until his passing on May 1, 1972.

To honor his contributions, the Shah Abdul Hamid Stadium in Gaibandha is named after him.