Question 12GS1GS1

Indian nationalism that confronted British imperialism in the 19th century was a product of colonial modernity. Do you agree? (Answer in 250 words)

Introduction

Emerging nationalism of the 19th century can be regarded as 'Indian Renaissance Movement' in our history. It was pioneered by Raja Ram Mohan Roy among others.

26 words

Main Body

It is held that it was a product of colonial modernity as :-

-i- Western educated elites were leading Indian Nationalism. eg Dada Rajah Ram Mohan Roy, Babalhai Naoroji

-ii- Imported values of Western minded eg liberty, equality (French Revolution)

-iii- Learning from colonial masters of their history

eg No representation without taxation in Indian Council Act was learnt from American history

-iv- Disconnect with the masses who were considered as 'subjects'

-v- Faith in British Sense of Justice eg this influenced moderates like GK Gokhale, MG Ranade

-vi- No demand for democracy in India as they agreed on colonial rulers eg Barbarians need despotic rulers

However, the 19th century was MORE than just this as :-

-i- Amending social ills for an inclusive nationalism eg Sati, female infanticide, widow Remarriage (DK Karve)

-ii- Demand for indianisation of services eg Brahmo Samaj

-iii- Pride in India's role as a spiritual leader which led to 'Swadeshi' eg Aurobindo

-iv- Demand for constitutional rights administered with Indian Councils Act 1861, 1892.

— Ishitha Kishore · AIR 1

169 words11 paragraphs

Conclusion

However the 19th century initiatives were ⊐ Limited in base of sporadic ⊐ Communal (Dharma Sabha, Desband, Shudhi Movement) ⊐ led by elites Yet their role was monumented as held by GK Gokhale. 'The mistakes of 19th century leaders will pave the way of the struggle'. This was seen in 20th century movements So Emerging nationalism of the 19th century can be regarded as Indian Renaissance Movement in our history. It was pioneered by Raja Ram Mohan Roy among others.

80 words

Clear opening with terminology
Identifies key pioneers
Provides specific historical examples
Links to philosophical movements (French Revolution)

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Topper

Ishitha Kishore

AIR 1

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Modern Indian History

Indian Nationalism and Renaissance

Colonial modernity and Indian nationalism

Writing Stats

275

Total words

Paragraphs

analytical and structured

Tone

Linked PYQ

The women's questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century social reform movement. What were the major issues and debates concerning women in that period?

15M2014What