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.

This quiz explores the impact of The First World War on the national movement, including the spread of new modes of struggle and their implications on new areas and social groups. It also delves into the economic and political situation created by the war, such as increased defence expenditure and its financing.