The First World War and National Movement

Impact of the First World War on India

• The First World War significantly altered India's socio-economic landscape, leading to increased political consciousness among the Indian populace.
• The war prompted the Indian government to recruit soldiers and raise funds, placing heavy demands on resources and contributing to a rise in unrest.

Acute Food Shortages (1918-19 and 1920-21)

• Food shortages were exacerbated by wartime policies, including the diversion of agricultural resources to support the war effort, affecting local food supply.
• Natural disasters, such as the 1918 influenza epidemic and subsequent famine conditions, severely impacted crop yields and availability, leading to widespread hunger.

Widespread Anger in Rural Areas

• Rural unrest emerged due to increased taxes and exploitation by landlords, as farmers faced diminished returns and rising costs amid war-related economic strain.
• The tension was intensified by the government's failure to provide relief during crop failures and the subsequent economic hardships.

New Mode of Struggle

• Mahatma Gandhi proposed a new mode of struggle based on nonviolent resistance, advocating for civil disobedience as a means to address hardships and injustices faced during and after the war.