Nationalism in India played a crucial role in the country’s struggle for independence. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries Indians united against British rule demanding self-governance and freedom. Various movements leaders and ideologies contributed to the rise of nationalism shaping modern India’s history.
This topic provides comprehensive Class 10 history notes on nationalism in India covering key events movements and figures that played a significant role in the freedom struggle.
What is Nationalism?
Nationalism is the belief in the unity and sovereignty of a nation. It encourages people to fight for their country’s freedom culture and identity. In India nationalism emerged as a response to British colonial rule uniting people from different regions religions and backgrounds under a common cause.
Causes of the Rise of Nationalism in India
Several factors contributed to the growth of nationalism in India:
1. British Exploitation and Policies
- The British imposed heavy taxes exploited Indian resources and caused economic hardships.
- The introduction of the Rowlatt Act (1919) restricted civil liberties fueling anger against British rule.
2. Impact of Western Education
- Educated Indians learned about democracy freedom and equality from Western political ideas.
- Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji and Raja Ram Mohan Roy used these ideas to demand self-rule.
3. Role of the Indian National Congress (INC)
- Founded in 1885 the Indian National Congress (INC) provided a platform for national leaders to voice their demands.
- The INC initially sought reforms but later demanded complete independence.
4. Partition of Bengal (1905)
- The British divided Bengal to weaken national unity but it led to strong protests and the Swadeshi Movement.
- People boycotted British goods and promoted Indian industries.
Major Movements in Indian Nationalism
Several movements played a key role in shaping Indian nationalism:
1. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922)
- Launched by Mahatma Gandhi to oppose British rule peacefully.
- Indians refused to pay taxes boycotted British schools courts and goods.
- The movement ended after the Chauri Chaura incident (1922) where protesters turned violent.
2. Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934)
- Started with the Salt March (Dandi March) led by Gandhi in 1930.
- Indians broke British salt laws as an act of protest.
- The movement gained widespread support but was suppressed by British authorities.
3. Quit India Movement (1942)
- A mass movement demanding the British to leave India immediately.
- Gandhi’s slogan “Do or Die” inspired millions to participate.
- The British arrested many leaders but the movement brought India closer to independence.
Role of Key Leaders in Indian Nationalism
Several leaders contributed significantly to India’s freedom struggle:
1. Mahatma Gandhi
- Advocated non-violence (Ahimsa) and truth (Satyagraha) as tools against British rule.
- Led movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement Civil Disobedience Movement and Quit India Movement.
2. Subhas Chandra Bose
- Formed the Indian National Army (INA) to fight the British militarily.
- His slogan “Give me blood and I will give you freedom” inspired many revolutionaries.
3. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
- Promoted the idea of “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it”.
- Led the Swadeshi Movement and encouraged boycotts of British goods.
4. Jawaharlal Nehru
- Advocated modernization and socialism for an independent India.
- Became India’s first Prime Minister after independence in 1947.
5. Bhagat Singh
- A revolutionary who believed in armed resistance against British rule.
- Executed in 1931 for his role in the Lahore Conspiracy Case becoming a martyr for the freedom struggle.
The Role of Women in the Nationalist Movement
Women played an essential role in India’s fight for independence:
- Sarojini Naidu was an active leader in the Civil Disobedience Movement.
- Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi fought bravely in the 1857 Revolt.
- Annie Besant led the Home Rule Movement demanding self-governance.
The Impact of World War II on Indian Nationalism
- The war weakened Britain’s control over colonies increasing demands for independence.
- The Cripps Mission (1942) attempted to offer India self-rule but failed.
- The INA’s efforts and the Quit India Movement intensified nationalist sentiments.
The Road to Independence (1947)
- The Mountbatten Plan (1947) proposed the partition of India and Pakistan.
- On 15 August 1947 India gained independence from British rule.
- Jawaharlal Nehru became India’s first Prime Minister.
Nationalism in India was fueled by British oppression economic exploitation and the desire for self-rule. Through various movements and the leadership of figures like Gandhi Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose India successfully achieved independence in 1947. The struggle for freedom remains a crucial chapter in Indian history inspiring future generations to fight for justice and equality.
