Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

World War II (1939-1945) had a profound impact on India's political landscape and significantly influenced the final phase of the Indian independence movement.

• The war years saw dramatic shifts in the relationship between India and Britain, accelerated political developments within India, and set the stage for the country's eventual independence in 1947.

Body

Key Impacts and Influences:

• Polarization of Indian Political Landscape: The outbreak of World War II led to a split in Indian political opinion:
  • The Indian National Congress, led by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, opposed India's involuntary participation in the war.
    • The Congress Working Committee at Wardha (September 1939) resolved that India couldn't support a war for democratic freedom while being denied its own freedom.
  • The Muslim League, under Muhammad Ali Jinnah, supported the British war effort in exchange for political concessions.
• The August Offer (1940) and Its Consequences:
  • The British government made the August Offer, promising dominion status to India after the war.
  • The offer was rejected by both the Congress and the Muslim League, leading to increased political tensions.
• The Cripps Mission (1942)
  • Sir Stafford Cripps proposed a plan for India's self-government after the war.
  • The plan's failure highlighted the growing gap between British intentions and Indian nationalist aspirations.
• Quit India Movement (1942)
  • The failure of the Cripps Mission led to the launch of the Quit India Movement by the Congress.
  • This mass civil disobedience movement marked a decisive shift towards demanding immediate independence.
• Weakening of British Power
  • The war significantly weakened Britain economically and militarily, reducing its ability to maintain colonial control over India.
  • Indian participation in the war effort led to increased self-confidence and a stronger bargaining position.
• Economic Impact and Social Changes
  • The war led to economic hardships, including inflation and food shortages, fueling discontent against British rule.
  • It also brought about social changes, including increased urbanization and industrialization.
  • Example: The Bengal Famine of 1943, exacerbated by wartime policies, caused millions of deaths and intensified anti-British sentiment.

Conclusion

World War II acted as a catalyst in India's struggle for independence. It exposed the vulnerabilities of British rule, intensified nationalist sentiments, and accelerated political developments. The war's impact on India exemplifies how global events can profoundly influence national movements and reshape political landscapes.