Sir Syed, was an Indian Muslim pragmatist, Islamic reformist and philosopher of nineteenth century British India. He was instrumental in founding the Aligarh Muslim University. He also laid the foundation stone of the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College on 24 May 1875. Syed Ahmed Khan was knighted by the British government in 1888 and was awarded Knight Commander of the order of Star of India for his loyalty to the British crown.