Yahya Khan was a Pakistani military officer and politician who served as the President of Pakistan from 1969 to 1971. He came to power after the resignation of Ayub Khan, and his leadership was marked by significant political and social challenges, including the growing demands for autonomy in East Pakistan. His tenure ended following the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, which resulted in the independence of Bangladesh. Yahya Khan's government faced criticism for its handling of the crisis, and he eventually resigned, leading to the appointment of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as his successor.