Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

The First World War (1914-1918) significantly transformed India’s relationship with the British Empire, leading to profound economic and political changes that would lay the groundwork for the country's eventual independence.

Body

Impact of First World War on India’s Relationship with British Empire:

• Economic Impact:
  • Increased War Expenditure: To support the war effort, the British government raised taxes and imposed new tariffs, leading to inflation.
    • The war expenditures led to a burden on Indian taxpayers and increased the cost of living, exacerbating poverty among the masses.
  • Supply Chain Disruptions: The war disrupted trade routes and agricultural production, leading to food shortages and famine, highlighting the vulnerabilities of an economy tied closely to colonial policies.
  • Emergence of Indian Industries: The war effort necessitated increased production of war materials, which led to the growth of Indian industries, particularly in textiles and munitions.
    • This industrial expansion marked a shift from a primarily agrarian economy and initiated the rise of a nascent capitalist class that would later support nationalist movements.
  • Economic Nationalism: The war experience and economic hardships fostered a sense of economic nationalism.
    • Indian business communities began to realize the importance of self-reliance and started advocating for Indian-made goods, laying the foundation for the Swadeshi movement.
• Political Awakening:
  • Military Recruitment and Expectations: Over 1.3 million Indian soldiers served in the British Army during the war.
    • Their contributions raised expectations for political concessions in return for their service. However, the post-war period saw disappointment when the British failed to deliver promised reforms.
  • Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (1919): The British government, in response to growing discontent, introduced these reforms, which aimed at increasing Indian participation in governance.
    • However, the limited nature of the reforms led to widespread disillusionment, further fueling the desire for greater self-governance.
  • Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919): The brutal suppression of peaceful protesters in Amritsar was a turning point in the Indian political landscape.
    • It galvanized public opinion against British rule and united various factions within Indian society against colonial oppression.
• Rise of Nationalist Movements:
  • Formation of New Political Alliances: The Indian National Congress (INC), previously dominated by moderate leaders, began to adopt more radical approaches.
  • Increased Awareness and Activism: The war years saw the rise of a politically conscious middle class and student movements, which actively participated in protests and advocacy for rights.
    • Women also became increasingly involved in the nationalist movement, demanding greater rights and participation.
    • Gandhi’s return from South Africa in 1915 and his leadership during the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) was somewhat influenced by the war’s impact.

Conclusion

The First World War was indeed a watershed moment for India’s independence, characterized by economic strain, political awakening, and the rise of nationalist movements, not only highlighted the flaws of colonial rule but also fostered a collective consciousness that ultimately culminated in the quest for independence.