The Rise of Indian Nationalism
Directions:
Step 1: Read the secondary source and watch the video on the rise of Indian nationalism. Then follow the directions and complete the assignment in your webquest packet.
Secondary Source Analysis:
Indian Nationalism Grows
Two groups formed to rid India of foreign rule: the primarily Hindu Indian National Congress, or Congress Party, in 1885, and the Muslim League in 1906. Though deep divisions existed between Hindus and Muslims, they found common ground. They shared the heritage of British rule and an understanding of democratic ideals. These two groups both worked toward the goal of independence from the British.
WWI Increases Nationalist Activity
Until World War I, the vast majority of Indians had little interest in nationalism. The situation changed as over a million Indians enlisted in the British army. In return for their service, the British government promised reforms that would eventually lead to self-government.
In 1918, Indian troops returned home from the war. They expected Britain to fulfill its promise. Instead, they were once again treated as second-class citizens. Radical nationalists carried out acts of violence to show their hatred of British rule. To curb dissent, in 1919 the British passed the Rowlatt Acts. These laws allowed the government to jail Protestants without trail for as long as two years. To Western-educated Indians, denial of a trial by jury violated their individual rights.
Amritsar Massacre
To protest the Rowlatt Acts, around 10,00 Hindus and Muslims flocked to Amritsar, a major city in the Punjab, in the spring of 1919. At a huge festival in an enclosed square, they intended to fast and pray and to listen to political speeches. The demonstrations, viewed as a nationalist outburst alarmed the British. They were especially concerned about the alliance of Hindus and Muslims.
Most people at the gathering were unaware that the British government had banned public meetings. However, the British commander at Amritsar believed they were openly defying the ban. He ordered his troops to fire on the crowd without warning. The shooting continued for ten minutes. Official reports showed nearly 400 Indians died and about 1,200 were wounded. Others estimate the numbers were higher.
News of the slaughter, called the Amritsar Massacre, sparked an explosion of anger across India. Almost overnight, millions of Indians changed from loyal British subject into nationalists. These Indians demanded independence.
The massacre at Amritsar set the stage of Mohandas Gandhi to emerge as the leader of the independence movement.