08. Civilising the Native, Educating the Nation History Class 8 Chapter 8 Notes

08. Civilising the Native, Educating the Nation History Class 8 Chapter 8 Notes

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Introduction to Chapter

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: This chapter delves into the formation and evolution of the Indian National Movement from the 1870s to 1947. It highlights the roots of nationalism in India, leading to a collective consciousness among diverse groups against British colonial rule. The chapter discusses key events, figures, and movements that shaped the struggle for independence, stressing the significance of unity among different communities in the fight for liberty.,

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The Emergence of Nationalism

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The question surfaces regarding the identity of India: who is it for, and what does it mean to be Indian? Nationalism began to take shape in the 1870s and 1880s with the recognition that India belongs to all its people—regardless of class, caste, or creed. As educated Indians became more cognizant of British exploitation, political associations were formed, such as the Indian National Congress, to express national sentiments and demand rights.

• Key associations formed in the 1870s and 1880s spearheaded by educated elites.
• Emergence of the idea that sovereignty belongs to the people of India.
• Notable organizations included the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha and Indian National Congress.
• Political consciousness emerged due to British laws, such as the Arms Act and the Vernacular Press Act.
• Public outcry was notable during events like the Ilbert Bill controversy.
• The aim was to secure Indian rights and representation in governance.
• Various social groups began to collectively reject British authority.
• Examples : The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha aimed for inclusiveness, while the opposition to the Arms Act showcased discontent with colonial authority.,

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A Nation in the Making

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The early years of the Indian National Congress aimed to moderate their approach towards obtaining rights. The Congress focused on demanding greater representation and abolishing the discriminatory practices employed by the British. The campaign for civil service examinations in India indicates a desire for Indian involvement in governance.

• Major demands included representation for Indians in legislative councils.
• Education reform and higher civil service for Indians were pivotal issues.
• Early Congress leaders were from elite backgrounds, which affected their strategies.
• The criticisms of British economic policies highlighted the economic grievances of common people.
• Resolutions on topics like famine and agriculture were central to their agenda.
• Moderates emphasized petitions over protests to gain goodwill.
• They believed in persuading the British to amend discriminatory laws.
• Examples : The suggestion for civil service examinations to be held in India is a significant demand of the moderate phase.,

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The Growth of Mass Nationalism

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Post-World War I, the nationalist movement began to gain traction among various social classes, including peasants, tribals, and workers. This period marked significant changes due to economic strife caused by the war. The emergence of Mahatma Gandhi as a leader mobilized large sections of society towards freedom.

• Economic exploitation during and after the war added to public discontent.
• Gandhi’s philosophies of non-violence attracted a broad base of support.
• Various local struggles linked to Gandhi’s ideas were evident across regions.
• The public felt encouraged to engage in direct action against the British.
• Women also joined the struggle, marking a significant shift in societal roles.
• Events such as the Salt March showcased mass participation against British laws.
• Political consciousness among the populace grew significantly.
• Examples : The Salt March in 1930 served as a symbol of civil disobedience inspired by Gandhi.,

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The Advent of Mahatma Gandhi

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Gandhi returned to India in 1915, bringing with him a wealth of experience in activism. His philosophy of non-violence became a cornerstone for the struggle against British rule, enabling mass participation without resorting to violence.

• Gandhi traveled across various regions to understand local issues.
• His role in early movements like Champaran and Kheda defined his leadership style.
• He sought to unify different religious and social groups in the freedom struggle.
• Gandhi’s approach significantly diversified the national movement’s participants.
• His emphasis on grassroots involvement galvanized public support.
• The notion of ‘swaraj’ was central to his ideology, encompassing self-rule.
• Gandhi’s leadership marked a shift towards widespread mobilization against colonial forces.
• Examples : The Champaran Satyagraha addressed peasant grievances against oppressive policies, demonstrating Gandhi’s commitment to rural issues.,

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Non-Cooperation Movement and Khilafat Agitation

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In response to various injustices, the Non-Cooperation Movement gained momentum as India united under the leadership of Gandhi and Muslim leaders like the Ali brothers. This movement actively urged Indians to withdraw their cooperation from British institutions.

• The Jallianwala Bagh massacre incited anger and a sense of urgency among the populace.
• The Khilafat movement sought to rally Muslims alongside Hindus against imperialism.
• Mass protests, educational boycotts, and promotions of swadeshi became widespread practices.
• Unique local grievances were linked to the broader anti-British sentiment.
• The movement illustrated a moment of unity among diverse communities.
• Gandhi successfully encouraged the abandonment of foreign goods in public sections.
• Despite the peaceful intent, some protests ended in violence, leading to a setback.
• Examples : The Khilafat movement showcased significant Hindu-Muslim unity in the fight against British rule.,

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The Happenings of 1922-1929

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Events during this period, including the Chauri Chaura incident, forced Gandhi to call off the Non-Cooperation Movement. Subsequent phases saw different approaches within the Congress and an expanding base of support through social work.

• The violent Chauri Chaura incident led to substantial repercussions.
• Gandhiji emphasized constructive work while distancing from violent actions.
• New leaders emerged within the Congress seeking electoral participation.
• Socio-economic initiatives aimed at building community support were launched.
• Revolutionary figures also emerged, advocating for more radical approaches.
• Movements against oppressive policies continued to grow.
• The broadening of the Congress’s base reflected the changing dynamics of political activism.
• Examples : Bhagat Singh’s activism illustrated the growing radicalisation within the youth.,

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Quit India Movement and Later Developments

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The Quit India Movement of 1942 marked a critical phase in the struggle for independence. It called for the immediate withdrawal of British rule, showcasing widespread nationalistic fervor.

• Mass mobilization reached unprecedented levels during this movement.
• The response from the British was severe, with mass arrests and crackdowns.
• The movement led to the rise of grassroots leadership and local governments.
• Participation from diverse groups marked this significant phase in Indian history.
• Women, peasants, and youth played crucial roles throughout the protests.
• The movement highlighted the desperation for self-rule and independence.
• The growing desire for complete independence came from widespread public outcry.
• Examples : Individual acts of resistance and local revolts illustrated the depth of dissatisfaction with British rule during the Quit India Movement.,

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Towards Independence and Partition

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The period leading to India’s independence was marked by intense political negotiations, communal strife, and eventual partition. As freedom loomed, the division of India along communal lines created significant upheaval.

• The Muslim League’s demand for Pakistan sowed seeds of division.
• Executive and legislative negotiations became fraught with tension.
• Mass violence erupted during the partition, leading to widespread chaos and displacement.
• The tragic fallout of partition involved loss of lives and forced migrations.
• The independence struggle concluded with both celebration and sorrow across the nation.
• Historical narratives were shaped by the experiences of countless individuals.
• The complex relationships between communities were tested during this period.
• Examples : The partition of 1947 illustrated how national aspirations could lead to tragic consequences, with millions displaced and histories rewritten.,

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Conclusion

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: The chapter highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of the Indian National Movement, showcasing how it evolved through various phases of awakening, leadership, and mass participation. The drive for independence was not merely a political struggle but also involved deep social change and the forging of a national identity amidst diversity.

Keywords and Definitions:

• Nationalism: A sense of pride in and devotion to one’s country, emphasizing a collective identity and self-determination.
• Swaraj: Literally means “self-rule
• Non-Cooperation: A form of protest against colonial rule where individuals refuse to participate in British governance or policies.
• Satyagraha: A philosophy and method of nonviolent resistance developed by Mahatma Gandhi.
• Partition: The division of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, leading to mass displacement and communal violence.
• Ilbert Bill: A controversial bill that aimed to allow Indian judges to try British offenders, reflecting racial tensions in colonial India.
• Swadeshi Movement: A movement that encouraged the use of Indian-made products and the boycott of British goods.