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Independence War with West Pakistan (March)
The 1971 war damaged the Bangladesh economy. The country was not prepared for anything coming their way. -
First Bengali Currency after Indepence War (December)
After the end of the war on December 16th, 1971, Bangladesh did not have its own currency so the government allowed the use of an old Pakistani currency stamped with the Bengali seal. For some unknown reason they also allowed the use of Indias currency even though the Pakistani currency was in use as well. -
Price Inflation
This happened weeks before the famine and it caused food prices to sky rocket. The price of crops doubled and it made it very hard for the people to buy it without an income. The Rangpur district was on of the worst affected areas. -
Great Flooding
From April to July 1974, Bangladesh was hit with heavy rain. The flood happened during the time that Bengalis would usually harvest jute which was a major source of employment and income for the rural population. At least 40% of Bangladesh was flooded. Even though floods were common, because of the war Bangladesh was not ready for such devastation. -
Bengali Government US embargo on food aid increased famine
USA did not send food aid because during the war USA was ally to Pakistan and Bangladesh exports jute to Cuba which is an enemy. When Bangladesh cut off ties with Cuba, the USA agreed to send food aid. However this was a year after the Bengalis had asked for help so it was too late for some. -
Death Because of Famine
About 1.5 million people died during the famine.
