Reasons for Growing Nationalism in India

BRITISH RESENTMENT British Resentment- Indians came to resent their British rulers, who sometimes showed a superior attitude and treated Indian traditions with contempt. For example, Indians encountered “Europeans Only” signs on trains and at the doors of private clubs.

WESTERN IDEAS The thousands of Indians who attended British schools read about and learned to value Western ideas, such as democracy, nationalism, and self-determination.

INDIAN LEADERS Indian leaders of unusual ability gave strength to two political parties that were dedicated to winning national independence. The Indian National Congress (INC) attracted mainly Hindus to its ranks. Its chief leader in the early 20th century was a nationalist named Mohandas Gandhi. A second party, the Muslim League, consisted of Indian Muslims who wanted an end to British rule. Its leader was Mohammed Ali Jinnah.

WORLD WAR II Following World War II, Britain did not have the resources nor the determination to maintain control over their colonies who were pushing for independence.

India’s Struggle for Independence

NON-VIOLENCE Gandhi developed the policy of passive resistance. He counseled Indians to peacefully suffer British beatings and violence, and he refused to advocate the use of force against British officials.

CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE Gandhi urged Indians to disobey unjust British law. In 1930, he led a Salt March to protest the British salt tax. His followers also fasted and refused to work for the British. As a result, Indians were jailed in large numbers.

COTTAGE INDUSTRIES Gandhi encouraged Indians to boycott (refuse to buy) British cotton goods, and to buy homemade goods. He hoped this would rebuild India’s cottage industries and raise living standards.