Indian Nationalism Rise

Overview

This lecture covers the rise of Indian nationalism during the early 20th century, focusing on the anti-colonial movements led by Mahatma Gandhi and the diverse participation of various social groups, culminating in collective efforts for independence.

Origins of Indian Nationalism

• Indian nationalism emerged through the struggle against colonial oppression, uniting diverse groups under shared hardship.
• The Indian National Congress, under Gandhi, attempted to bring together different classes with varied views of freedom.

The First World War, Khilafat, and Non-Cooperation

• WWI caused economic hardship, high taxes, forced recruitment, and hardship for peasants, fueling discontent.
• Mahatma Gandhi introduced satyagraha, advocating non-violent resistance and truth.
• The Rowlatt Act of 1919 allowed imprisonment without trial, sparking mass protests and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
• The Khilafat Movement united Hindus and Muslims in protest, leading to the launch of the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920.

Strands Within the Movement

• Town movements saw students, teachers, lawyers boycotting British institutions; economic boycott of foreign goods boosted Indian industry.
• In rural areas, peasants and tribals interpreted swaraj as freedom from oppression, leading to local uprisings.
• Plantation workers sought freedom of movement and a return to their villages, inspired by the promise of Gandhi Raj.

Towards Civil Disobedience

• The Non-Cooperation Movement was withdrawn in 1922 due to violence (e.g., Chauri Chaura incident).
• The Simon Commission (1928) angered Indians as it excluded Indian members; united opposition was shown.
• The Lahore Congress (1929) demanded Purna Swaraj (complete independence); 26 January 1930 was declared Independence Day.

Civil Disobedience and the Salt March

• Gandhi's Salt March in 1930 protested the salt tax and sparked the Civil Disobedience Movement, urging Indians to break colonial laws.
• The movement included boycotts, non-payment of taxes, and mass demonstrations; government responded with repression and arrests.
• Participation varied: rich peasants, poor tenants, business classes, women, but limited involvement of untouchables (dalits) and Muslims due to social and political divides.

Collective Belonging and Cultural Nationalism

• Nationalism was fostered through cultural symbols like Bharat Mata, songs, folklore, and reinterpretation of history.
• National symbols (flags, prints), literature, and festivals promoted a sense of unity.

The Quit India Movement

• In 1942, Gandhiji launched Quit India, demanding immediate British withdrawal, turning into a mass movement involving students, workers, and women.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Satyagraha — Non-violent resistance to injustice, emphasizing truth and moral force.
• Rowlatt Act — Law allowing British authorities to arrest and detain without trial.
• Non-Cooperation Movement — Mass boycott of British goods, services, and institutions (1920–22).
• Civil Disobedience Movement — Active, non-violent law-breaking against colonial rule (1930–34), inspired by Gandhi's Salt March.
• Swaraj — Self-rule or independence.
• Khilafat Movement — Campaign to protect the Ottoman Caliphate, uniting Indian Muslims.
• Dalit/Harijan — Social group previously called "untouchables," later referred to as "children of God" by Gandhi.

Action Items / Next Steps

• List social groups in the Non-Cooperation Movement; write about three groups' hopes and struggles.
• Discuss why the Salt March was a powerful symbol of resistance.
• Reflect on the experience of a woman in the Civil Disobedience Movement.
• Research contrasting views on separate electorates among political leaders.
• Complete textbook's "Write in Brief" and project assignments.