Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

The Russian Revolution of 1917, a pivotal event in global history, had a profound influence on India's nationalist movement.

• The overthrow of the Tsarist regime and the establishment of a socialist state in Russia provided Indian nationalists with new ideas, inspiration, and strategies to challenge British colonial rule.

Body

Impact of the Russian Revolution of 1917 on India's Nationalist Movement:

• Inspiration for Anti-Imperialist Struggle: The Russian Revolution demonstrated that it was possible to overthrow an oppressive regime, inspiring Indian nationalists in their fight against British colonial rule.
  • As Jawaharlal Nehru noted: “The Soviet Revolution had advanced human society by a great leap and had lit a bright flame which could not be smothered and that it laid the foundation for a new civilization toward which the world could advance”
• Introduction of Socialist and Communist Ideas: The revolution introduced socialist and communist ideologies to Indian political discourse, influencing the direction of the independence movement.
  • Formation of the Communist Party of India in 1920. M.N. Roy, an Indian revolutionary, played a significant role in it.
• Workers' and Peasants' Rights: The revolution highlighted the importance of workers' and peasants' rights, leading to increased focus on these groups in India's freedom struggle.
  • Formation of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) in 1920.
  • Increased emphasis on peasant movements, such as the Champaran Satyagraha led by Gandhi in 1917.
• Challenge to Capitalist and Feudal Systems: The revolution questioned the existing economic and social structures, encouraging Indian leaders to envision alternative systems for an independent India.
  • The concept of "complete independence" (Purna Swaraj) adopted by the Indian National Congress in 1929, moving beyond the earlier demand for dominion status.
• Influence on Revolutionary Movements: The success of the Bolsheviks inspired more radical, revolutionary approaches within the Indian independence movement.
• International Solidarity: The revolution promoted the idea of international solidarity among oppressed peoples, influencing Indian nationalists to seek support beyond national boundaries.
  • Indian nationalists' participation in the League Against Imperialism, founded in Brussels in 1927.
• Reimagining Social Structures: The revolution's focus on equality inspired Indian thinkers to challenge traditional social hierarchies, including the caste system.
  • B.R. Ambedkar's advocacy for Dalit rights and social reform.

Conclusion

The Russian Revolution of 1917 had a profound and multifaceted impact on India's nationalist movement and political thought. It introduced new ideologies, challenged existing systems, inspired revolutionary zeal, and influenced economic and social thinking.