The Making of the National Movement: 1870s-1947 | HISTORY | CLASS VIII | NOTES

 

The Emergence of Nationalism

The term “India” was first used to refer to all of its inhabitants, regardless of caste, class, religion, language, colour, or gender and the resources of the country were exclusively meant for its indigenous population. Conversely, the British colonial empire had its eyes on acquiring control of the vast treasure of resources and riches in India. Simultaneously, it took control of the lives of Indians. After 1850, a variety of political organisations were established, which contributed to recognising the several problems of the society under colonial rule. Among the most important political organisations during this period were The Indian Association, Poona Sarvajanik Sabha, Madras Mahajan Sabha, Indian National Congress, and the Bombay Presidency Association.

Students will learn in-depth about these associations and the emergence of the national association in this chapter. All of these organisations were critical to the functioning of different movements in various parts of India. Furthermore, each organisation had a specific goal to achieve. This subtopic will teach you the following two topics.

• A Nation in the Making
• Freedom is our Birthright

  The Growth of Mass Nationalism

  The tragic struggle against British authority became a popular movement after 1919. Tribal members, students, peasants, and women were all present in large numbers in this movement. Occasionally, these movements also included factory workers.

  India’s political and economic climate suffered serious disruptions after World War I. The Indian government increased its defence budget as a result. Additionally, business profit taxes and individual income taxes were increased. The rise in military spending and demand for war supplies resulted in significant price increases, causing hardships for the general public. Business organisations, on the other hand, profited greatly from the war. The war increased demand for industrial commodities like jute bags, cotton, and rails while decreasing foreign imports. Thus, the Indian industry expanded during the war. Students will learn more about what happened in India after World War I.

  • The Advent of Mahatma Gandhi

  Mahatma Gandhi was among the most popular leaders of the masses during the time. He arrived in India from South Africa in 1915. He organised non-violent protests against racism during his time in South Africa and replicated the idea of non-violence back in India.

  • The Rowlatt Satyagraha

  In 1919, Mahatma Gandhi called for a Satyagraha protest against the Rowlatt Act. The freedom of expression and other fundamental Indian rights were curtailed by this law, which also increased police authority.

  Along with these topics, students will also comprehensively learn about the following topics.

  • The Non-Cooperation Movement and the Khilafat Agitation
  • Initiatives of the People
  • The People’s Mahatma
  • The Events of 1922-1929