The Rise and Fall of Pervez Musharraf

A Volatile, Troubled Decade
Though he came to power via a bloodless coup, Pervez Musharraf pledged to steer Pakistan towards a more democratic future. Guided by a fierce authoritain streak, he sometimes jailed or exiled those who opposed him. His alliance with the United States in the "war on terror" buoyed the Pakistani economy, yet placed him in political jeopardy at home.

• In Pakistan, Musharraf Bows Out