Exploring NCERT Class 10 Social Science: Nationalism in India – Key Events, Figures, and Impact

Chapter 2: Nationalism in India

Abstract:
This chapter explores the growth of nationalism in India during the British colonial period. It delves into various movements, the role of different social groups, and the leadership of the Indian National Congress in steering the nation towards independence. The chapter covers significant events like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, Quit India Movement, and the role of Mahatma Gandhi in these movements. It also touches upon the contributions of other national leaders and the impact of World War I on Indian nationalism.

Main Points:

• The emergence of Indian nationalism was a result of British colonial policies, economic exploitation, administrative changes, and cultural challenges.
• The role of Mahatma Gandhi in transforming the Indian National Movement with his ideologies of non-violence and Satyagraha.
• Significant movements such as the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), Civil Disobedience Movement (1930), and Quit India Movement (1942).
• Contributions of various social groups including peasants, workers, and women in the national movement.
• The impact of global events, especially World War I, on Indian political consciousness and the demand for independence.

Important Years:

• 1919: Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, a turning point in Indian nationalism.
• 1920: Start of the Non-Cooperation Movement.
• 1930: Launch of the Civil Disobedience Movement with the Salt March.
• 1942: Quit India Movement begins.

Points to Remember:

• The significance of the Simon Commission and the resultant protests.
• The role of the Indian National Congress and other political organizations in the freedom struggle.
• The partition of Bengal in 1905 and its impact on the national movement.
• The formation of the Muslim League and its demands.

25 Important Questions and Answers:

1. What sparked the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920?

• The Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the dissatisfaction with the British response to the Montagu-Chelmsford reforms.

1. How did Mahatma Gandhi’s ideology influence the national movement?

• Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and Satyagraha became the foundation of the national movement, emphasizing peaceful protests and civil disobedience.

1. What was the outcome of the Civil Disobedience Movement?

• It led to the Government of India Act 1935, increasing the participation of Indians in governance but failed to grant complete independence.

1. Describe the significance of the Quit India Movement.

• Marked a decisive phase in the freedom struggle, with mass participation demanding an end to British rule during WWII.

1. How did World War I impact Indian nationalism?

• The war exposed the exploitative nature of British colonialism, leading to increased demands for self-rule and heightened nationalist sentiments.

6. What role did women play in the Indian National Movement?

• Women participated actively in protests, boycotts, and movements, symbolizing their significant role in the struggle for independence.

6. What was the impact of the partition of Bengal in 1905?

• It led to widespread protests and marked the rise of revolutionary activities as well as the Swadeshi movement, fostering a sense of unity against British rule.

6. Why was the Simon Commission boycotted?

• It was boycotted because it did not include any Indian members, and was seen as a ploy to placate Indian demand for greater self-governance without actually providing it.

6. Explain the significance of the Salt March.

• The Salt March, led by Mahatma Gandhi, was a direct action campaign against the British salt tax, symbolizing the struggle against British exploitation and injustice.

6. What led to the formation of the Muslim League?
   • The Muslim League was formed in 1906 to protect the rights of Muslims and eventually became a voice for the demand of a separate nation, Pakistan.
7. How did the Indian National Congress change under Gandhi’s leadership?
   • Under Gandhi’s leadership, the Congress transformed into a mass movement with a wider participation of all sections of society, focusing on non-violent resistance.
8. What were the main demands of the Quit India Movement?
   • The main demand was the immediate end of British rule in India.
9. How did the British government respond to the Quit India Movement?
   • The British government responded with mass arrests, violence, and suppression of protests.
10. What was the role of Subhas Chandra Bose in the freedom struggle?
    • Subhas Chandra Bose advocated for armed struggle against the British and led the Indian National Army (INA) for India’s independence.
11. Discuss the significance of the Government of India Act 1935.
    • It was a significant step towards self-governance, providing provincial autonomy and a federal structure, though it did not meet the demands for complete independence.
12. How did socioeconomic factors contribute to the rise of nationalism in India?
    • Socioeconomic exploitation by the British, such as high taxes and the drain of wealth, fueled discontent and a collective desire for self-rule.
13. What was the impact of World War II on India’s freedom struggle?
    • The economic strain and demand for soldiers intensified the demand for independence, leading to the Quit India Movement.
14. Explain the role of peasants in the national movement.
    • Peasants participated in protests against heavy taxation and exploitation, significantly contributing to the movement’s mass base.
15. What was the Poona Pact?
    • The Poona Pact was an agreement between Ambedkar and Gandhi regarding the representation of the “untouchables” in the legislative assembly.
16. How did the Indian National Movement impact global perceptions of colonialism?
    • It inspired other colonies to fight for their independence, marking the beginning of the end of European colonialism worldwide.
17. What led to the division of India in 1947?
    • The demand for a separate Muslim nation, led by the Muslim League, resulted in the partition of India into two countries: India and Pakistan.
18. Discuss the significance of the Lahore Resolution.
    • The Lahore Resolution (1940) was the first formal call for a separate Muslim homeland, which eventually led to the creation of Pakistan.
19. How did Gandhi’s assassination impact India?
    • Gandhi’s assassination in 1948 was a profound loss, leading to nationwide mourning and reinforcing the principles of non-violence and peace.
20. What challenges did India face immediately after independence?
    • Post-independence, India faced partition-related violence, refugee crises, and the task of nation-building.
21. How has the history of the national movement influenced contemporary India?
    • The national movement’s legacy of unity, non-violence, and democratic values continues to shape India’s identity and policies.