Indian Nationalism :: Asian Asian History

Indian NationalismFactors Promoting NationalismRacial arrogance - on the part of the British created resentment by Indians. They were tempered as second-class citizens and were given only the poorest jobs. British in positions of power, such as General Mayo (Viceroy of India) openly made statements of racial superiority. educated Indian professionals - felt they were denied equal opportunities within the machinery of British rule (such as the Indian Civil Service). They founded a ultranationalistic movement that initially sought equal perspective for Indians and eventually sought full Indian independence. Anti-Westernisation - Britain had changed Indias traditional institutions with apparently little respect for the existing culture and religion. British modernisation - probably helped spread the nationalist message. They had improved transport and communications. Indian Association 1885 - Began as a powerless talking shop but turned into the Indian National Congress, where Indian s could voice their complaints against the British. Educated politicians used this parliament to rally support for the movement. Lord Curzon (Viceroy 1898-1905) gave no concessions to the natives. He allowed them no representation and saw them as inferior. Division of Bengal 1906 - was unpopular because it divided the regional cultures. In India, many people had greater affinity to their region than to the whole country. Splitting Bengal led to a swell of nationalist support. Factors Restraining NationalismIndia was divided regionally - There was great cultural and religious divide across the regions. There were 200 different languages spoken across India so communication on a large scale was difficult. There were also many religions (including Sikhs, Muslims, and Hindus) who would not co-operate with each other. Indian Congress was divided - Liberal wing led by Gokhale, and basal wing led by Tilak.