Today, the military government still rules Pakistan, though Gen. Musharraf has pledged to restore full democracy by 2002.

There was no coup, although generals have ruled Pakistan for almost half of its 51-year history, and prime ministers have been dismissed in earlier clashes with the army.

Military dictators have ruled Pakistan for most of its history.

The general, one in a line of military dictators to rule Pakistan for 26 of its 53 years, has been working hard to improve his image here among intellectuals.

Mohammad Zia ul-Haq constantly promised democracy without ever really giving it during the 11 years he ruled Pakistan.

Zia had ruled Pakistan for 11 years prior to his death.

General Zia ruled Pakistan from 1977 to 1988 as president and chief of the armed forces.

Generals have ruled Pakistan for 26 of its 53 years.

He ruled Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of northern India from 1530-1556.

The military has ruled Pakistan for more than half of its history, and the periods of civilian government have been tainted with corruption and mismanagement.