Bangladesh has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, with influences from various civilizations, including the Maurya and Gupta empires. The region was known for its fertile land and was a significant center for trade and culture. In the 12th century, Bengal became a prominent area for Buddhism and later Islam, which shaped its cultural identity. In the 20th century, Bangladesh was part of British India until 1947, when it became East Pakistan after the partition. Following a struggle for autonomy, the country gained independence in 1971 after a brutal war, becoming the People's Republic of Bangladesh.