The First World War was a turning point in the history of India. Before the war, India was under the rule of the British Empire, with most of the people having no say in the government or their own lives. But the war changed everything and helped to create a new era of Indian nationalism and independence. In this article, we will take a look at how the First World War helped to fuel the growth of the national movement in India.
India’s National Movement Pre-WWI
Before the onset of the First World War, India was a colony of the British Empire. Although there had been some stirrings of dissent within the country, it was still firmly under the control of the British. There was little in the way of a unified national movement, and the majority of the population was still largely unaware of their own rights and freedoms.
WWI’s Impact on India’s National Movement
The First World War had a profound impact on India and its people. The British Empire was heavily engaged in the war effort, and this led to increased taxes and conscription for the people of India. This in turn led to widespread discontent and dissent, as people began to realize that they were being exploited by the British. This discontent then provided the foundation for the growth of a national movement in India, as people began to demand greater rights and freedoms.
The war also saw the emergence of a new generation of Indian leaders, such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. These leaders were able to rally the people of India and to unite them in a cause for independence. This was further aided by the British policy of granting Indian soldiers the same rights as their British counterparts, which helped to foster a sense of national pride and identity.
The First World War was a catalyst for change in India, and it helped to spark the growth of a national movement for independence. The war also saw the emergence of a new generation of Indian leaders, who were able to rally the people of India and to unite them in a cause for independence. The war was a pivotal moment in Indian history, and it helped to pave the way for a new era of Indian freedom and self-determination.