History: Nationalism in India (Class 10, CBSE)




Introduction:
Nationalism in India refers to the movement for independence that took place in India during the period of British colonial rule. It was a reaction against the oppressive policies and exploitation imposed by the British on the Indian people. The nationalist movement in India played a crucial role in the country's struggle for freedom.




Early Nationalism:
- The early phase of nationalism in India can be traced back to the 19th century.
- Influenced by the ideas of modern nationalism emerging in Europe, Indian intellectuals started questioning the British rule and advocating for self-governance.
- Various socio-religious reform movements like the Brahmo Samaj and Arya Samaj also contributed to the development of nationalistic sentiments.




Formation of Indian National Congress:
- The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded in 1885 by A.O. Hume.
- Initially, the INC aimed to seek constitutional reforms and represent the interests of the Indian people to the British government.
- Prominent leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Surendranath Banerjee, and Gopal Krishna Gokhale played significant roles in shaping the early phase of the INC.




Rise of Extremist Movements:
- With the failure of moderate methods, extremist leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai emerged.
- The extremists advocated for more radical measures like boycotts, swadeshi movement, and mass protests.
- They emphasized self-reliance and the use of indigenous products to weaken the economic hold of the British.




Partition of Bengal:
- The partition of Bengal in 1905 by the British sparked widespread protests and resistance.
- The decision was seen as an attempt to divide the Hindus and Muslims, leading to the formation of the Swadeshi movement.
- The movement called for boycott of British goods and promoted the use of Indian products.




Mahatma Gandhi and Non-Cooperation Movement:
- Mahatma Gandhi emerged as a prominent leader during the Indian nationalist movement.
- He advocated for non-violent resistance and civil disobedience.
- The Non-Cooperation Movement launched by Gandhi in 1920 aimed to boycott British institutions, including educational institutions, and promote the use of khadi (handspun cloth).




Civil Disobedience Movement:
- The Civil Disobedience Movement, initiated by Gandhi in 1930, aimed to challenge the salt laws imposed by the British.
- It involved mass protests, non-payment of taxes, and the famous Dandi March, where Gandhi and his followers marched to the coastal town of Dandi to make salt from seawater.




Quit India Movement:
- The Quit India Movement was launched by the Indian National Congress in 1942, demanding an immediate end to British rule.
- It was a mass civil disobedience movement, marked by widespread protests, strikes, and acts of sabotage.
- The movement faced severe repression by the British, with many leaders being imprisoned.




Conclusion:
The nationalist movement in India played a crucial role in the country's struggle for independence. It united people from different regions, religions, and social backgrounds under the common

Search on u tub pustack class 10