U Razak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
U Razak
ဦးရာဇတ် عبدالرزاق |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Minister of Education and National Planning | |
| In office September 1946 – 19 July 1947 |
|
| Prime Minister | Aung San |
| Preceded by | Office not in use |
| Succeeded by | Office not in use |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 20 January 1898 Meiktila, British Burma, British India |
| Died | 19 July 1947 (aged 49) Rangoon, Burma |
| Political party | AFPFL |
| Parents | Sheik Abdul Rahman (father) Nyein Hla (mother) |
| Alma mater | University of Rangoon |
| Signature |  |
U Razak (born January 20, 1898 – died July 19, 1947) was an important leader and educator in Myanmar (formerly Burma). He was a minister in the government led by Aung San before Myanmar became an independent country. Sadly, he died on July 19, 1947, along with six other government leaders. This day is now remembered every year as Martyrs' Day in Myanmar. U Razak was the Minister of Education and National Planning. He also led the Burma Muslim Congress, a group for Muslims in Myanmar.
Contents
Who Was U Razak?
U Razak was born in Meiktila, a town in Upper Burma, on January 20, 1898. His mother, Nyein Hla, was a Bamar Buddhist. His father, Sheik Abdul Rahman, was a wealthy Indian police inspector. Even though his brothers and sisters chose to be Buddhists, U Razak kept his Muslim name to honor his father.
Early Life and Education
U Razak believed that all people should live together peacefully, no matter their religion. He deeply loved Myanmar. He went to the Wesleyan School in Mandalay. Later, he studied at the Rangoon College, where he earned a degree in English. U Razak was also very active in sports during his school years.
A Leader for Change
In 1920, U Razak became the first person from Myanmar to organize a boycott against the education system set up by the British. This was a way to protest and ask for changes. In 1921, he became the headmaster of Mandalay National High School. U Razak had a friendly and inspiring personality, which helped him connect with the people of Mandalay.
Mandalay was a major center for Buddhist faith and culture in Myanmar. Even though U Razak had a mixed background, the community fully accepted him. When Japan invaded Burma during World War II, he was put in prison.
Working for Myanmar's Future
In 1945, U Razak became the head of the Mandalay branch of the Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League (AFPFL). This was a big political group working for Myanmar's independence. He was elected to represent Mandalay in the government.
He served as the Minister of Education and National Planning in Aung San's government. U Razak tragically died on July 19, 1947, along with six other important government members.
A Legacy of Unity
U Razak worked hard to bring Muslims and Buddhists in Myanmar together. He was a Muslim, but he also learned about Buddhism. He studied Pali, a special language used in Buddhist texts. He also helped start the Mandalay College, which is now known as Mandalay University. U Razak had three children.
Images for kids
-
U Razak's signature
