The document provides an overview of the history of ancient Bengal, beginning with the pre-historic period and Gangaridai Empire. It then discusses several successive ruling dynasties that dominated the region from the early middle ages to late middle ages, including the Gauda Kingdom, Pala Empire, Sena Dynasty, Chandra Dynasty, and Deva Kingdom. The Pala Empire reached its height between 750-900 CE and patronized important institutions like Nalanda University. Later periods saw the advent of Islamic rule by the Turko-Afghans and establishment of the Bengal Sultanate. The colonial era brought European influence and British rule. After partition, East Pakistan emerged and later gained independence as Bangladesh.