India's Journey to Nationhood: 1870-1947

Introduction to the Chapter

• The chapter examines India's transformation from various provinces into a unified nation between 1870 and 1947.
• A central analysis is the emergence of nationalism, the quest for independence, and the significant individuals and occurrences involved.
• The concept of "India" as a unified nation evolved through collective experiences and struggles.
• Nationalist sentiments intensified during 1870-1947, culminating in independence.
• The focus shifted from localized patriotism to a unified national identity advocating for the entire nation.

The Context: British Rule & Discontent

• The chapter presupposes knowledge of British conquest, administrative changes, and their effects on different societal groups.
• British administration introduced new laws and institutions, causing widespread discontent across Indian society.
• Policies concerning peasants, tribals, education, industries, women, and caste reforms fueled growing dissatisfaction.
• The 1857 Revolt, viewed as an early expression of discontent, lacked national unity.
• This discontent paved the way for an organized national movement seeking independence.

Chapter Themes: Nationalism, Movements, Leaders

• The cultural and mental identification of India's people differed from its geographical or political definition.
• India was defined by a shared sense of belonging among its people, regardless of regional and cultural differences.
• The unification of the nation was gradual, marked by challenges, struggles, and the rise of key leaders.
• A critical development was the shift from sudden revolts to a systemic opposition to British rule through sustained movements.
• Key themes are the rise of nationalism, the complexities of nation-building, the expansion of mass nationalism, and the influence of key leaders.

Key Topics to be Covered

• The emergence of Nationalism describes how national identity developed.
• The creation of a unified Indian identity is explained as "A Nation in the Making".
• The different approaches within the Indian National Congress are defined by "Moderates and Extremists".
• The growth of the movement to include a wider section of society is "The Growth of Mass Nationalism".
• The influence of Gandhi's leadership is explained as "The Advent of Mahatma Gandhi".
• Key movements such as the Rowlatt Satyagraha, Khilafat agitation, Non-cooperation movement, and Quit India movement are explained by "Satyagraha & Movements".

The Spark: Emergence of Nationalism

• Unity among people grew with the awareness of British rule as a common oppressor.
• The realization of subjection to the British Crown was a unifying factor.
• People began to identify as a single nation, transcending divisions of class, color, caste, creed, language, or gender.
• The idea of nationhood took root, overshadowing existing provincial structures.

Fuel to the Fire: Opposition to the British

• Opposition to British rule intensified due to discriminatory policies and the absence of freedom and democracy.
• Educated Indians saw a contradiction where British citizens enjoyed freedom and equality.
• The denial of such rights to Indians fueled the push for sovereignty and self-governance.
• Nationalist leaders moved from seeking minor concessions to demanding complete separation from British rule.
• The desire for sovereignty to establish Indian laws, institutions, and practices strengthened nationalism.

Expressing Themselves: Associations & Organizations

• Associations and organizations formed to voice concerns and demand greater participation in governance.
• Organizations like the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha, Indian Association, Madras Mahajan Sabha, and Bombay Presidency Association emerged.
• They promoted the idea of popular sovereignty and the right to self-determination.
• The establishment of the Indian National Congress in 1885 unified nationalist aspirations.
• The primary goal was to achieve sovereignty for the entire country.

An Unjust System: The British

• The British implemented racism through laws limiting Indian economic and political power.
• The Arms Act of 1878 and the Vernacular Press Act of 1878 curtailed Indian rights.
• These laws aimed to create fear and suppress awareness among the Indian population.
• Opposition to the Ilbert Bill exposed British racist attitudes and caused unrest in Indian society.
• The need for collaboration among educated Indians on national goals led to the Indian National Congress.

India Responds: INC is Born

• The Indian National Congress was formed in Bombay in December 1885 with 72 delegates from across India.
• Key figures were Dadabhai Naoroji, Surendranath Banerjee, and British civil servant AO Hume.
• Dadabhai Naoroji, "Grand Old Man of India," highlighted India's poverty caused by colonial rule.
• Naoroji supported young nationalist organizations and served as a British Parliament member.
• AO Hume facilitated the INC's formation to empower Indians independently.

Explore India's transformation from provinces to a nation (1870-1947). Understand the rise of nationalism, the independence struggle, and key figures. Examine the impact of British rule and growing discontent among Indian society.