Nationalism in India

Nationalism in colonial India was a movement against British rule, uniting people under the shared goal of independence. It emerged from anti-colonial struggles, fostering a sense of collective identity.

The war increased economic hardships in India, leading to widespread discontent. This fueled nationalist sentiments as people blamed colonial policies for their suffering.

Satyagraha, introduced by Gandhi, is non-violent resistance to injustice. It emphasizes truth and moral force over physical force, aiming to convert the oppressor through peaceful means.

The Rowlatt Act (1919) allowed detention without trial, sparking nationwide protests. It led to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, intensifying anti-British feelings.

On April 13, 1919, British troops fired on a peaceful crowd in Amritsar, killing hundreds. This brutal act galvanized the Indian independence movement.

Launched in 1920, it aimed to resist British rule non-violently by boycotting schools, courts, and foreign goods. It united Hindus and Muslims under Gandhi's leadership.

The Khilafat Movement (1919-24) opposed British policies against the Ottoman Caliphate. It allied with the Non-Cooperation Movement, strengthening Hindu-Muslim unity.

Initiated in 1930, it involved breaking colonial laws like the salt tax. It marked a shift from non-cooperation to active defiance, with mass participation.

Gandhi's 240-mile march to Dandi (1930) protested the salt tax. It became a powerful symbol of resistance, showing the British could be challenged.

Peasants, tribals, workers, and women joined the movements for varied reasons, from economic grievances to desires for political rights and social dignity.

Dalit leaders like Ambedkar sought political empowerment separate from the Congress, demanding reserved seats and separate electorates to address caste oppression.

Concerned about minority rights, the League demanded separate electorates, fearing Hindu dominance in an independent India.

Women participated in protests, picketed shops, and made salt, breaking traditional gender roles. However, their political rights remained limited.

Symbols like Bharat Mata and national songs fostered a collective identity. Folklore and history were reinterpreted to instill pride in India's past.

Signed in 1931, it ended the Civil Disobedience Movement. Gandhi agreed to attend the Round Table Conference, but negotiations failed to meet Indian demands.

In 1932, it resolved the conflict over separate electorates for Dalits. It provided reserved seats but within a joint electorate, promoting integration.

Launched in 1942, it demanded immediate British withdrawal. Despite severe repression, it demonstrated mass support for independence.

Divergent goals among groups (e.g., peasants, Dalits, Muslims) often led to conflicts, showing the challenges of unifying a diverse population.

Newspapers, novels, and plays spread nationalist ideas, criticizing colonial rule and celebrating Indian culture, shaping public opinion.

These movements laid the foundation for India's independence in 1947, showcasing the power of mass mobilization and non-violent resistance.