The

Struggle Begins

● Beginning of Modern Nationalism in India

● Indian National Congress: Foundation and the Moderate Phase

Chapter 10

Beginning of Modern Nationalism in India

Factors in the Growth of Modern Nationalism

The rise and growth of Indian nationalism has been traditionally

explained in terms of Indian response to the stimulus generated by the British Raj through creation of new institutions, new opportunities, resources, etc. In other words, Indian nationalism grew partly as a result of colonial policies and partly as a reaction to colonial policies. In fact, it would be more correct to see Indian nationalism as a product of a mix of various factors:

(i) Worldwide upsurge of the concepts of nationalism and right of self-determination initiated by the French Revolution.

(ii) Indian Renaissance.

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(iii) Offshoot of modernisation initiated by the British in India.

(iv) Strong reaction to British imperialist policies in India.

Understanding of Contradictions in Indian and Colonial Interests Political, Administrative and Economic Unification of the Country Western Thought and Education Role of Press and Literature Rediscovery of India’s Past Progressive Character of Socio-religious Reform Movements Rise of Middle Class Intelligentsia Impact of Contemporary Movements in the World Reactionary Policies and Racial Arrogance of Rulers Political Associations in Bengal Political Associations in Bombay Political Associations in Madras Pre-Congress Campaigns Summary Was It a Safety Valve?Aims and Objectives of the Congress Era of Moderates (1885-1905)Important Leaders Moderate Approach Contributions of Moderate Nationalists Constitutional Reforms and Propaganda in Legislature Campaign for General Administrative Reforms Protection of Civil Rights Views An Evaluation of the Early Nationalists Role of Masses Views Attitude of the Government Views Summary