Class 8 Our Past III The Making of the National Movement

Class 8 Our Past III The Making of the National Movement

1. Introduction

  • This chapter explains how modern Indian nationalism developed from the 1870s to India’s independence in 1947.
  • The movement involved political, social, and economic struggles against British colonial rule.
  • Both moderates and radicals played important roles in shaping the national movement.

2. Early Nationalism (1870s–1905)

  • Formation of Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885.
  • Moderates: Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale.
    • Focused on petitions, dialogues, and reforms.
  • Goals included:
    • Representation in legislative councils
    • Reduction in taxes and administrative reforms
    • Protection of Indian industries

3. Radical Phase (1905–1919)

  • Partition of Bengal (1905) triggered protests.
  • Radicals: Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal.
    • Advocated direct action, boycotts, and protests.
  • Movements included:
    • Swadeshi Movement (boycott British goods, promote Indian goods)
    • Protests against colonial policies

4. Gandhi and Mass Movements (1919–1947)

  • Mahatma Gandhi introduced non-violent resistance (Satyagraha).
  • Key movements:
    • Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–22)
    • Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–34)
    • Quit India Movement (1942)
  • Gandhi emphasized unity, self-reliance, and peaceful protest.

5. Role of Women

  • Women actively participated in the freedom struggle.
  • Leaders included Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, Annie Besant.
  • Women organized protests, boycotts, and social reforms.

6. Achievements

  • National awareness and unity grew across India.
  • British concessions in administration and reforms occurred gradually.
  • Set the stage for India’s independence in 1947.

7. Key Terms to Remember

  • INC: Indian National Congress.
  • Moderates: Early leaders seeking reforms peacefully.
  • Radicals: Leaders advocating direct action.
  • Satyagraha: Non-violent resistance.
  • Swadeshi Movement: Boycott of British goods.
  • Quit India Movement: 1942 mass protest for independence.

8. Most Probable Questions (One/Two Word Answers)

  1. Year of INC formation → 1885
  2. Moderate leader → Gokhale
  3. Radical leader → Tilak
  4. Protest against British goods → Swadeshi
  5. Non-violent resistance → Satyagraha
  6. Movement in 1942 → Quit India
  7. Female leader → Sarojini Naidu
  8. Event triggering radical protests → Bengal Partition
  9. Movement 1920–22 → Non-Cooperation
  10. Freedom achieved → 1947