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.
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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.
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)
Ishitha Kishore
Modern Indian History
Indian Nationalism and Renaissance
Colonial modernity and Indian nationalism
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Total words
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Paragraphs
analytical and structured
Tone