Theoretical overview
The Indian nationalism, in its actual sense, rose in the late 19th and early 20th century. It was driven by a range of factors that contributed to a growing sense of collective identity and the desire for independence from British colonial rule.
Some of the key causes for the rise of Indian nationalism are: –
- The period of British colonial rule in India which brought about economic exploitation, politics stress and the erosion of the cultural autonomy. Policies including heavy taxation, landforms and discriminatory policies served as a cause for the emergence of nationalist sentiments.
- Various socio religious reform movements like the brahmo samaj and Arya samaj played the vital role in fostering a shared sense of national consciousness. These movements advocated for social equality, education and the preservation of the Indian cultural values.
- The economic policies of the British which led to the diminishing of indigenous industries and promoted the import of British goods. The middle class aspired for greater political rights economic opportunities and actively participated in the national independent movement.
- The expansion of education and the advent of modern communication technology such as newspapers also played a vital role in disseminating nationalist ideas.
- The leadership of prominent figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhash Chandra Bose played instrumental roles in mobilizing the masses and shaping the Indian National movement.
The social basis of Indian National movement was formed by the youth and the women as the agents of change. With vibrant student unions and youthful enthusiasm, they took center stage in protest. Many students willingly sacrificed their education and future prospects driven by the spirit of nationalism and their desire to see India free from the shackles of colonial rule. The participation of women was a hallmark of the Indian National movement. Women from diverse backgrounds including educated urban women and rural women from peasant communities played a very significant role by organizing meetings, marching in protest and by supporting boycott movements.
Moreover, the laboring classes and trade unions were important allies in the Indian National movement. Workers from factories, mines and plantations along with trade union leaders joined hands to express their grievances against exploitative working condition, low wages and unfair trade practices under British rule. Their demand for justice also contributed to the struggle for independent.
Points to remember
- The Indian nationalism, in its actual sense, rose in the late 19th and early 20th century. It was driven by a range of factors that contributed to a growing sense of collective identity and the desire for independence from British colonial rule.
- The leadership of prominent figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhash Chandra Bose played instrumental roles in mobilizing the masses and shaping the Indian National movement.
- Various socio religious reform movements like the brahmo samaj and Arya samaj played the vital role in fostering a shared sense of national consciousness. These movements advocated for social equality, education and the preservation of the Indian cultural values.
- The social basis of Indian National movement was formed by the youth and the women as the agents of change.
