Growth of Nationalism in India

Introduction

Historical Context: India was divided into small kingdoms ruled by different kings.
Colonial Impact: British arrival and oppression led to a united Indian identity.
Modern Education System: Introduction by British; inspired by French Revolution's principles of liberty, fraternity, and equality.

Key Factors Leading to Nationalism

Economic Exploitation

Plundering Wealth: British impoverished a once wealthy nation.
Agrarian Distress: Farmers exploited for raw materials with high taxes (lagaan), often indebting them to moneylenders.
Artisans' Struggles: Raw material exported to Britain, undermining local crafts and industries.
Working Class Suffered: Poor working conditions, low salaries, and job scarcity.
Educated Indians: Limited to low-ranking jobs under exploitative British employers.

Repressive Policies

Lord Lytton’s Policies: Extravagant Delhi Durbar, Vernacular Press Act, Indian Arms Act, suppression of rights.
Ilbert Bill Controversy: Attempted judicial equality thwarted by British opposition.

Social and Religious Reforms

Raja Ram Mohan Roy

Advocated for Monotheism: Founded Brahmo Samaj and wrote on worship and social unity.
Opposed Social Evils: Fought against caste system, polygamy, child marriage, and purdah system.
Sati Abolishment: Instrumental in banning the practice of sati in 1829.
Educational Efforts: Published newspapers, advocated for separation of executive and judiciary, and justice for Indians.

Jyotiba Phule

Women’s Education: Opened first girls school in Pune (1854) and schools for untouchables.
Against Caste System: Established Satyashodhak Samaj for social equality.
Writings: Authored 'Gulamgiri' on caste oppression.

Influence of Social Reform Movements

Swami Dayanand Saraswati & Other Reformers: Promoted pride in Indian culture, opposed untouchability and caste system.
Women's Participation: Women began to actively participate in movements.
Moral Support: Reformers provided moral support against British policies.

Role of Press

Spreading Awareness: Newspapers like Amrit Bazaar Patrika, The Bengali, and others spread modern ideas and patriotism.
Exposing Injustice: Documented British exploits and informed public, increasing unity against British.
Global Context: Informed Indians about global movements and revolutions.

Predecessors to Indian National Congress

Landholder's Society (1838): Early attempt to organize political associations.
East India Association (1866): Founded by Dadabhai Naoroji in London for informing British public about Indian issues.

Formation of Indian National Congress (1885)

Foundation: Initiated by A.O. Hume, supported by Lord Dufferin.
First Session: Held in Mumbai, presided by W.C. Banerjee with 72 delegates.
Objectives: Promote unity, represent demands, and create public opinion.
Prominent Figures: Surendranath Banerjee, Dadabhai Naoroji, and others.

Impactful Sessions

1907 Split: Congress divided into Moderates and Extremists in Surat session.
1916 Lucknow Pact: Joint session with Muslim League; reconciliation between Moderates and Extremists.

Conclusion

The growth of nationalism was a multi-faceted process influenced by economic exploitation, repressive colonial policies, social reforms, and collective efforts of various leaders, leading to the formation of a united national identity and organized political movements like the Indian National Congress.