Mains Marathon

• Introduction: Start your answer by providing a brief overview of the Indian freedom struggle and its significance in the context of nationalism.
• Body: Discuss the factors that contributed to the growth of modern nationalism
• Conclusion: Summarize the key points discussed, reiterating the connection between the growth of modern nationalism and the anti-colonial movement.

Answer:

Modern nationalism in India was a complex and dynamic process that emerged from the interaction of various factors. The growth of modern nationalism in India is intimately connected to the anti-colonial movement that emerged in response to the British rule. Modern nationalism in India was not only a political ideology, but also a cultural and social phenomenon that shaped the identity and aspirations of the Indian people.

Some of the anti-colonial movements that contributed to the growth of modern nationalism in India were:

• The exploitation and oppression of the Indian people by the colonial policies, such as heavy taxation, land revenue system, economic drain, famines, racial discrimination and suppression of civil rights, which created a sense of resentment and resistance among the masses.
• The leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, who introduced a new mode of struggle based on non-violence, civil disobedience, and mass mobilization. Gandhi also appealed to various sections of the Indian society such as peasants, workers, women, students, etc., and united them under a common national cause.
• Various political associations and movements, such as the Indian National Congress (INC), Swadeshi Movement, Home Rule League, Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement and others, which mobilized and organized the people to participate in the nationalist struggle also articulated the demands and grievances of the Indian people.
• The spread of western education and modern ideas that exposed the Indians to the concepts of democracy, liberty, equality, and nationalism. The educated Indians also became aware of the contradictions and injustices of the colonial rule and developed a critical outlook towards it.
• The emergence of a modern press and literature that fostered a common language and culture among the Indians and expressed their grievances and aspirations. The press also played a role in mobilizing public opinion and creating a national consciousness.
• The impact of the First World War and its aftermath that exposed the economic and political exploitation of India by the British. The post-war period also witnessed the repression of the nationalist movement by the British through measures such as the Rowlatt Act, the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, and the martial law.
• The influence of the international events and movements that inspired the Indian nationalists to fight for their freedom. The examples are: the American War of Independence, the French Revolution, the Russian Revolution, the rise of Japan as an Asian power, and the anti-imperialist struggles in China, Egypt, Iran, etc.

The Indian freedom struggle had a significant impact on the growth of nationalism in India. It created a sense of collective identity and solidarity among the diverse groups of Indians who shared a common goal of independence. It also fostered a spirit of sacrifice, courage, and patriotism among the Indians who faced various hardships and challenges in their struggle. It also paved the way for the emergence of India as a sovereign democratic republic after independence.