The chapter “Nationalism in India” explains how the sense of nationalism grew among Indians during colonial rule and how different movements contributed to India’s freedom struggle.
Topics Discussed
1. First World War and Nationalism
- Impact of WWI: The First World War (1914-1918) led to economic hardships in India—prices rose, heavy taxes were imposed, and people faced shortages of goods.
- Forced Recruitment: The British forced Indian men into their army, creating widespread anger.
- Influenza Epidemic (1918): Millions of people died due to a deadly flu, increasing dissatisfaction with British rule.
2. Rowlatt Act (1919) and Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
- Rowlatt Act: Allowed the British government to arrest people without trial.
- Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (April 13, 1919): British troops under General Dyer fired on an unarmed gathering in Amritsar, killing hundreds. This shocked the entire nation and fueled anti-British sentiments.
3. Gandhian Movements and Nationalism
(i) Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22)
- Reason: Started after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and British failure to address Indian concerns.
- Methods Used: Boycott of British goods, institutions, schools, and offices.
- Support: Had participation from both rural and urban areas.
- End: Called off after the violent Chauri Chaura incident in 1922.
(ii) Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34)
- Reason: Launched due to the demand for complete independence and the British government’s monopoly on salt.
- Salt March (Dandi March – 1930): Gandhi marched 240 miles to produce salt, breaking British salt laws.
- Impact: Led to mass protests, boycotts, and arrests of thousands, including Gandhi.
4. Different Social Groups and Their Role in Nationalism
(i) Role of Peasants
- Poor farmers suffered due to high taxes and revolted against landlords and the British.
- In some areas, they refused to pay taxes.
(ii) Role of Business Class
- Indian businessmen opposed British policies that restricted Indian industries.
- They supported nationalist movements and the demand for Swaraj.
(iii) Role of Women
- Women actively participated in movements, led marches, and faced arrests.
- Leaders like Sarojini Naidu played key roles.
5. Sense of Collective Belonging
- Nationalism grew when people started feeling a common identity.
- Cultural aspects like folklore, songs, and national symbols played a crucial role.
- The tricolor flag became a symbol of unity.
- Leaders like Gandhi promoted the idea of self-rule and self-reliance.
6. Conclusion
- Nationalism in India was fueled by oppression, economic exploitation, and political injustice by the British.
- Various movements, led by Gandhi and others, united people from different backgrounds.
- India finally gained independence on 15th August 1947, after years of struggle.
Quick Revision Points
First World War increased economic hardships in India. Rowlatt Act and Jallianwala Bagh massacre fueled anger against the British.
Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement were key milestones. Various groups—peasants, business class, and women—contributed to the freedom struggle. A sense of unity and collective belonging strengthened nationalism.
These notes cover the entire chapter in a concise yet detailed manner. If you revise them properly, you’ll be fully prepared for your exam!
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