The First World War was a global conflict which lasted from 1914 to 1918. It had a major impact on India, both politically and economically. India was a part of the British Empire during the war, and was forced to contribute to the war effort. This article will discuss the impact of WWI on India, including its entry into the war and the economic and political consequences.
India’s Entry Into WWI
India was a part of the British Empire during the war, and was forced to contribute to the war effort. India was a major supplier of troops, food, and other resources to the Allied forces. More than 1.3 million Indian troops were sent to fight in various theatres of the war, and over 74,000 Indian soldiers were killed in the conflict. India also provided financial assistance to the war effort, with the Indian government agreeing to contribute £100 million to the war effort.
Impact of WWI on India
The First World War had significant political and economic implications for India. Politically, the war led to increased Indian nationalism, as many Indians felt that they had been forced to contribute to the war effort without being given the right to self-determination. This led to the emergence of the Indian National Congress, which would eventually become the major political force in India.
Economically, the war had a major impact on India. The Indian government had to borrow heavily to fund the war effort, leading to a large increase in the country’s debt. This, combined with the disruption of trade, caused a severe economic downturn in the country.
The First World War had a major impact on India, both politically and economically. India was forced to contribute to the war effort without being given the right to self-determination, leading to increased Indian nationalism. Economically, the war caused a large increase in the country’s debt and a severe economic downturn. The impact of the First World War on India was far-reaching and long-lasting.