Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a 19th century Indian Muslim reformer and educator who founded the Aligarh Movement. He established several schools for Muslims, including the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in 1875, which later became Aligarh Muslim University. Sir Syed realized the importance of modern education for India's Muslims and helped introduce them to scientific thought and social reforms. In addition to his educational services, he played a role in politics by defending Muslim rights and was an advocate of the two-nation theory due to Hindu-Muslim tensions. Sir Syed dedicated his life to improving conditions for India's Muslim community through educational institutions and social services.