Q.9 Discuss the attitude of the nationalist movement in India towards developments in other parts of the world, particularly towards the nationalist movements in other countries and towards fascism.
Ans. The Indian nationalist movement was deeply influenced by global events, showing solidarity with other anti-colonial struggles while opposing fascism and imperialism. It reflected a broader vision of justice and freedom.
Attitude Towards Nationalist Movements in Other Countries
- Solidarity with Colonies: Supported anti-colonial struggles in Asia and Africa. Example: Gandhi’s support for Khilafat Movement (1919-24).
- Support to ASIA: Collaborated with Asian leaders. Example: Nehru’s participation in Asian Relations Conference (1947).
- Influence of Irish Struggle: Inspired by Ireland’s fight against British rule. Example: Use of non-cooperation tactics.
- Support for African Movements: Backed African independence. Example: India’s support for Nelson Mandela’s anti-apartheid struggle.
- Global Anti-Imperialism: Advocated for decolonization worldwide. Example: India’s role in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
Attitude Towards Fascism
- Strong Opposition: Condemned fascist ideologies. Example: Nehru’s criticism of Mussolini’s Italy.
- Support for Allies: Supported Allied powers during WWII against fascism. Example: Indian soldiers fought in World War II.
- Anti-Nazi Stance: Opposed Hitler’s racial policies. Example: Indian leaders condemned the Holocaust.
- Non-Violence vs Fascism: Advocated Gandhian non-violence as an alternative to fascist aggression.
The Indian nationalist movement was globally conscious, supporting anti-colonial struggles while firmly opposing fascism, reflecting its commitment to universal justice and freedom.
| Source: Arjun Dev Old NCERT |
| Keywords: Solidarity with Colonies , Pan-Asianism, Influence of Irish Struggle, Support for African Movements, Global Anti-Imperialism, Strong Opposition, Support for Allies: |
| Extra Info: The Indian National Congress was formed in December 1885 by a group of 72 politically conscious educated Indians. Mr. A.O. Hume a retired English Indian Civil Service officer played a significant role in its formation. Among its members were Pherozeshah Mehta, Badruddin Tyabji, WC Bonnerji, Surendranath Banerji, Anandamohan Bose and Romesh Chandra Dutt. This organisation was by no means the first such association of the Indian people. The English educated class in India was slowly becoming politically conscious and several political associations were being formed between 1875 and 1885. Dwarkanath Ganguly of Calcutta, Ranade and GV Joshi of Poona, KT Telang of Bombay and G Subramaniya Iyer, Viraraghavachari of Madras were already associated with regional political associations. The names of their organizations were Indian Association, Poona Sarvajanik Sabha, Bombay Presidency Association, and Madras Mahajan Sabha, respectively. The agenda of these associations was limited and far from the ideal of complete independence. These associations were raising their voice against policies of the colonial regime that might be inimical to the interests of Indians. The primary issues of concern taken up by the early nationalists belonging to these associations were as follows: cotton import duties to be made favourable for IndiansIndianization of government servicesOpposition to Afghan policy of the British GovernmentOpposition to Vernacular Press Act and control over the press |