First Phase of Indian National Movement: ICSE Class 10 History

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Get notes, summary, questions and answers, MCQs, extras, and PDFs of Chapter 3 “First Phase of Indian National Movement” which is part of ICSE Class 10 History (Total History). However, the notes should only be treated as references and changes should be made according to the needs of the students.

Summary

The chapter discusses the first phase of the Indian National Movement, led by the Early Nationalists, spanning from 1885 to 1907. The Early Nationalists were a group of educated Indians who believed in working within the British system to achieve their goals. They were mainly professionals such as lawyers and teachers, and many were influenced by Western education and ideas. The Early Nationalists trusted in the British sense of justice and aimed for reforms rather than complete independence.

Their demands focused on constitutional reforms, economic relief, and administrative changes. They sought a greater Indian role in governance, reduction in taxes, and protection of civil rights. They believed that India’s progress was hindered not by British rule but by the social and economic backwardness of Indians themselves. Therefore, they aimed for gradual progress through constitutional means, avoiding confrontation.

The Early Nationalists used methods such as petitions, prayers, and protests to appeal to the British government and educate the Indian public about political issues. They held meetings, wrote articles, and sent delegations to Britain to present their demands. They believed in peaceful and legal means, hoping that the British government would eventually grant India self-government.

Among the prominent Early Nationalist leaders were Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Surendranath Banerjee. Dadabhai Naoroji, known as the “Grand Old Man of India,” was instrumental in exposing the economic exploitation of India by the British through his Drain Theory. Gopal Krishna Gokhale was a strong advocate for reform and influenced many, including Mahatma Gandhi. Surendranath Banerjee was known for his efforts in educating the masses and forming political associations to oppose British policies.

The Early Nationalists laid the foundation for later phases of the Indian National Movement by creating a sense of national identity and unity among Indians. Their moderate approach, however, was later criticized for being too cautious and limited in its reach, focusing primarily on the urban educated class and not involving the broader population. Despite this, their contributions were significant in setting the stage for future demands for independence.

Textbook (Total History) solutions

Multiple-Choice Questions

1. Dadabhai Naoroji presented which famous theory in his paper ‘Poverty and Un-British Rule in India’?

A. Deficit Theory
B. Drain Theory
C. Deprivation Theory
D. Detriment Theory

Answer: B. Drain Theory

2. Methods used by Early Nationalists were―

A. Assertive in their approach.
B. Constitutional within the framework of law.
C. Non-violent but uncooperative to authority.
D. Assertive in approach but within the framework of law.

Answer: B. Constitutional within the framework of law.

3. What were the 3P’s of the Early Nationalists?

A. Petition, Protests and Passion
B. Purpose, Persistence and Prayers
C. Petition, Prayers and Protests
D. Protests, Petition and Process

Answer: C. Petition, Prayers and Protests

4. Which of the following was the aim of the Early Nationalists?

A. Eradication of British rule in India.
B. Promotion of equality among the workers for the cause of India.
C. Formulation of popular demands to be presented before the government.
D. Organisation of a violent struggle for the political emancipation of India.

Answer: C. Formulation of popular demands to be presented before the government.

5. Which of the following was a demand of the Early Nationalists?

A. Reduction in taxes and increase in government expenditure
B. A larger share of Indians in the governance of the country
C. Complete fusion of legislature and executive
D. Employment of Indians at all posts in the administrative services

Answer: B. A larger share of Indians in the governance of the country

6. Which of the following administrative demands were made by the Early Nationalists?

A. Increase in the powers of local bodies
B. Increase in official control over local bodies
C. Increase in the British officers in the civil services
D. Transfer of police service to local bodies

Answer: A. Increase in the powers of local bodies

7. Which of the following reforms was a result of the efforts made by Early Nationalists?

A. Withdrawal of the Partition of Bengal
B. Simultaneous ICS exams in India and England
C. Appointment of Lord Curzon as Viceroy
D. Irish Home Rule Agitation

Answer: B. Simultaneous ICS exams in India and England

8. Which of the following was achieved by Gopal Krishna Gokhale, as a Member of the Imperial Legislative Council?

A. Reduction in land revenue
B. Abolition of salt tax
C. Primary education made compulsory
D. Reduction in toll tax

Answer: D. Reduction in toll tax

9. The Early Nationalists initially believed that the British wanted to be just to India but were unaware of the real state of affairs. In this context which of the following statements are true?

(i) They believed that the British rule had many benefits.
(ii) They believed that the main obstacle in India’s progress was not the British Colonial rule but India’s own social and economic backwardness.
(iii) They provided elaborate statistical data to prove that the British rule was responsible for India’s poverty.

A. (i) and (ii)
B. (ii) and (iii)
C. (i) and (iii)
D. (i), (ii) and (iii)

Answer: D. (i), (ii) and (iii)

10. Dadabhai Naoroji: London India Society:: Gopal Krishna Gokhale:

A. Servants of India Society
B. East India Association
C. Indian Association
D. Indian National Conference

Answer: A. Servants of India Society

Select the correct relationship 

1. (A) The Early Nationalists believed in moderate politics.
(B) They asked for constitutional and other reforms within the framework of British rule.

(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (A) is the reason for (B)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.

Answer: B. (A) is the reason for (B)

Explanation: The Early Nationalists adopted moderate political strategies, which means they aimed to achieve their goals through gradual reforms and dialogue rather than through radical or confrontational methods. Their belief in moderate politics led them to request constitutional and other reforms while still operating within the structure of British rule, as they believed this approach would be more effective in achieving their objectives.

2. (A) The Early Nationalists created national awakening among people that they belonged to one common country-India.
(B) The Early Nationalists drew the masses into the mainstream of the national movement.

(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.

Answer: C. (A) is true but (B) is false

Explanation: The Early Nationalists did succeed in creating a sense of national consciousness among the Indian people, making them aware of their collective identity as Indians. However, they were largely unsuccessful in drawing the broader masses into the national movement. Their influence was mostly confined to the educated, urban middle class, and they did not manage to engage the larger rural population in their political activities.

3. (A) A few government officials attended the First session of the Congress and took part in its deliberations.
(B) British officials later on criticised the Congress and branded its leaders as ‘disloyal babus’ and ‘violent villains’.

(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.

Answer: D. (A) and (B) are independent of each other

Explanation: The fact that government officials attended the first session of Congress was an initial gesture of engagement with the Congress, which was seen as a moderate and non-threatening body at that time. However, as the Congress grew in influence and began to articulate demands that challenged British authority, British officials became more hostile, leading to their later criticisms. The two statements describe different phases in the relationship between the Congress and the British officials, but one does not directly cause the other.

4. (A) The British followed a policy of granting minor concessions to put down the growth of nationalism.
(B) The British realised that the growing unity of the Indians posed a major threat to their rule.

(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.

Answer: B. (B) is the reason for (A)

Explanation: The British government recognized that the increasing unity and nationalistic sentiments among Indians could potentially challenge their control over the country. To counteract this growing threat, they adopted a strategy of granting minor concessions, hoping to placate Indian demands and prevent the rise of more radical and unified opposition movements. Therefore, the realization of the threat posed by Indian unity (B) was the reason behind the policy of minor concessions (A).

Short Answer Questions

1. Which period of the National Movement is known as the period of the Early Nationalists’? Name any two leaders of the Congress who are known as Early Nationalists’.

Answer: The period from 1885 to 1907 is known as the period of the Early Nationalists. Two leaders of the Congress who are known as Early Nationalists are Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.

2. Mention two reasons for the Early Nationalists’ faith in the British sense of justice.

Answer: The Early Nationalists had faith in the British sense of justice because they believed in the integrity and fairness of British rule and because they hoped that the British would grant ‘Home Rule’ to Indians.

3. What was the belief of the Early Nationalists regarding the British rule in India?

Answer: The Early Nationalists believed that the British rule had many benefits, such as aiding in cleansing social ills like sati, untouchability, and child marriage.

4. What, according to the Early Nationalists, was an obstacle in India’s progress? What kind of self-government did the Early Nationalists demand?

Answer: According to the Early Nationalists, the main obstacle in India’s progress was the social and economic backwardness of Indians, not the British colonial rule. They demanded self-government within the British Empire, like the self-governing colonies of Canada and Australia.

5. State any two issues opposed by the Early Nationalists in the field of civil liberties.

Answer: The Early Nationalists opposed the restrictions imposed by the British government on the freedom of speech and the freedom of the press.

6. Mention any two demands of the Early Nationalists that aimed at improving the lot of the peasants.

Answer: The Early Nationalists demanded the reduction in land revenue and protection of peasants against unjust demands of the zamindars. They also advocated for the availability of cheap credit to peasants through agricultural banks.

7. Mention any two constitutional demands made by the Early Nationalists.

Answer: The Early Nationalists demanded the expansion of the Legislative Council and Legislative Assemblies and the increase in the membership of Indians in these Councils by including some members elected by local bodies like Chambers of Commerce and Universities.

8. Name any two economic issues raised by the Early Nationalists.

Answer: Reduction in land revenue and protection of peasants against unjust demands of the zamindars.

9. What did the Early Nationalists demand for the industrial growth of India?

Answer: The Early Nationalists demanded industrial growth through trade protection, which included the imposition of a heavy tax on imported goods and government loans for the development of industries like iron, coal, paper, and sugar.

10. Mention any two achievements of the Early Nationalists.

Answer: The Early Nationalists aroused national awakening among people that they belonged to one common country, India, and trained people in politics by popularising the ideas of democracy, civil liberties, secularism, and nationalism.

11. Who is known as India’s unofficial ambassador and why?

Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji is known as India’s unofficial ambassador because of his efforts in England to advocate for the cause of India, including founding the London India Society and being the first Indian member of the British House of Commons.

12. Name the author of (i) Poverty and Un-British Rule in India and (ii) A Nation in the Making.

Answer: (i) Dadabhai Naoroji is the author of Poverty and Un-British Rule in India, and (ii) Surendranath Banerjee is the author of A Nation in the Making.

13. Name the two Acts that Surendranath Banerjee agitated against.

Answer: Surendranath Banerjee agitated against the Vernacular Press Act and the lowering of the age limit for the Indian Civil Service Examination from 21 to 19 years.

14. List briefly any two causes that Gopal Krishna Gokhale supported.

Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale supported the reduction of land revenue and the abolition of excise duty on cotton goods.

Structured Questions

1. The period from 1885 to 1905 was dominated by the Early Nationalists. In this context, answer the following questions:

(a) To which section of society did they belong? What were their demands?

Answer: They belonged to the educated middle class, consisting of professionals like lawyers, barristers, teachers, and officials. Their demands included constitutional reforms, economic reforms, administrative demands, and the defence of civil rights.

(b) What methods did they adopt?

Answer: The Early Nationalists adopted constitutional agitation methods, which included holding meetings, passing resolutions, making use of the press to criticize government policies, sending memorandums and petitions to government officials, and using the three P’s: Petitions, Prayers, and Protests.

(c) How did the Early Nationalists help in the growth of nationalism in India?

Answer: The Early Nationalists helped in the growth of nationalism in India by creating national awakening among the people, training them in politics, exposing the true nature of British rule, and establishing the truth that India must be ruled in the interest of Indians.

2. The Early Nationalists were practical and wanted to win freedom by a gradual process. In this context, answer the following:

(a) How did they expose the true nature of British rule in India?

Answer: They exposed the true nature of British rule in India by making people realize the economic content and character of British imperialism, which included the exploitation of Indian resources and the impoverishment of the Indian people.

(b) What was the attitude of the Early Nationalists towards the British? Why did they develop such an attitude?

Answer: The Early Nationalists had an attitude of loyalty towards the British Crown because they believed in the British sense of justice, fair play, honesty, and integrity. They developed this attitude due to their faith in the British promises and the hope that the British would grant self-government to Indians.

(c) What were the reasons for the partial failure of their methods?

Answer: The reasons for the partial failure of their methods included their reliance on the British sense of justice rather than their own strength, their inability to involve the masses in the national movement, and their methods being limited to urban educated Indians and professional groups.

3. Surendranath Banerjee’s was popularly known as the father of Indian Nationalism. In this context answer the following questions:

(a) Trace his contribution towards the formation of the Indian National Congress.

Answer: Surendranath Banerjee contributed to the formation of the Indian National Congress by founding the Indian Association in 1876, which aimed to educate people and create political consciousness. He also convened the Indian National Conference in 1883, which later merged with the Indian National Congress in 1886.

(b) What was India’s political goal according to him? What were the methods he advocated to attain it?

Answer: According to Surendranath Banerjee, India’s political goal was self-government within the British Empire. He advocated constitutional methods, including opposition where necessary and cooperation where possible, to attain this goal.

(c) What was his contribution to India’s freedom struggle?

Answer: His contributions to India’s freedom struggle included founding the Indian Association, editing the newspaper Bengalee, agitating against the Licence Act, Arms Act, and Vernacular Press Act, and opposing the Morley-Minto Reforms and the Partition of Bengal.

4. Read the excerpt given below and answer the questions that follow:

(a) Who was Dadabhai Naoroji? According to Dadabhai Naoroji, in what sense ‘security of life and property’ prevails in India?

Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji was a prominent nationalist leader and one of the early leaders of the Indian National Congress. According to him, ‘security of life and property’ in India prevailed in the sense that people were secure from violence from each other or from native despots, but there was no security from the exploitation by the British.

(b) How is England ‘perfectly safe and secure’, as described in the excerpt by Naoroji?

Answer: England was ‘perfectly safe and secure’ because it could exploit India’s resources and wealth without any resistance, carrying away vast amounts of money from India every year.

(c) Dadabhai Naoroji propounded a theory to describe the exploitative nature of British rule in India. Name it. Explain briefly the last line of the excerpt given above.

Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji propounded the ‘Drain Theory’ to describe the exploitative nature of British rule. The last line of the excerpt explains that millions in India were living in conditions of half-feeding, starvation, famine, and disease because of the exploitation and draining of Indian wealth by the British.

Picture Study

(a) Identify the person in the given picture. State three policies of the imperial regime which were opposed by this person.

Answer: The person in the given picture is Gopal Krishna Gokhale. He opposed the following three policies of the imperial regime:

• The huge expenditure on the British army.
• The policy of racial discrimination in appointments to high posts.
• The imposition of production tax on cotton.

(b) What role did he play as a member of the Imperial Legislative Council?

Answer: As a member of the Imperial Legislative Council, Gopal Krishna Gokhale played a significant role by:

• Pleading for the reduction in Salt Duty.
• Advocating for the abolition of excise duty on cotton goods.
• Relentlessly working towards the reduction of toll tax.

(c) How did he try to arouse national awakening?

Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale tried to arouse national awakening by:

• Establishing the Servants of India Society in 1905 to train leaders dedicated to the service of the nation.
• Criticizing the British government’s policies and urging reforms, thus creating awareness about India’s political and economic issues.
• Using his position in the Imperial Legislative Council to advocate for the interests of Indians, thereby educating the public on their rights and duties.

Thinking Skills

1. Imagine that you got a chance to interview one of the Early Nationalist leaders. On the basis of interview, express your views on the Early Nationalist leader’s beliefs as well as the methods used by him.

Answer: The Early Nationalist leader I interviewed expressed a strong belief in the sense of justice and fair play of the British government. He believed that the British had introduced several positive reforms in India and hoped that, over time, they would grant more rights and self-governance to Indians. His belief was rooted in loyalty to the British Crown, as he felt that a gradual approach to gaining rights would be more effective than any form of direct confrontation.

He highlighted that the methods used by the Early Nationalists were primarily constitutional and peaceful. They focused on raising awareness among the Indian populace about their rights and the need for reforms. To achieve their goals, they employed methods such as holding public meetings to pass resolutions, using the press to criticize government policies, and sending memorandums and petitions to government officials and the British Parliament. These petitions were meticulously drafted with facts and logical arguments to appeal to the sense of justice in the British authorities. Additionally, he mentioned the use of the “three P’s” approach—Petitions, Prayers, and Protests—aiming to gradually persuade the British government to address the grievances of the Indian people. Overall, the leader’s strategy was to work within the legal framework, avoiding any form of violent or confrontational actions, believing that this would lead to a slow but steady political progress towards self-governance.

2. Suppose you want to present the demands of the people of your area to the MLA of your area. State which method followed by the Early Nationalists you would choose and why?

Answer: I would choose the method of submitting a well-prepared petition to the MLA, similar to how the Early Nationalists presented their demands to the British authorities. This method is effective because it allows for a clear and formal communication of the community’s concerns and demands. The Early Nationalists believed in addressing the authorities with respect and adhering to legal procedures, which helped them gain a reputation for being reasonable and constructive.

In preparing the petition, I would gather all relevant data and arguments to support the demands, ensuring that the document is comprehensive and persuasive. Additionally, just as the Early Nationalists did, I would seek to build a coalition of supporters from the community to back the petition, demonstrating that the demands are not just individual concerns but reflect the collective will of the people.

This method is preferable because it not only respects the democratic process but also engages the MLA in a dialogue, providing an opportunity to negotiate and work together towards a solution. It aligns with the Early Nationalists’ belief in gradual progress through lawful and peaceful means, which is particularly effective in a democratic setup where the elected representatives are accountable to the people.

Extra/additional MCQs

1. During which period did the Gandhian Era in the Indian National Movement take place?

A. 1907-1916
B. 1915-1947
C. 1885-1907
D. 1920-1947

Answer: B. 1915-1947

Q. Who among the following was a leader from Maharashtra and Gujarat during the Early Nationalist phase?

A. W.C. Bonnerjee
B. P.R. Naidu
C. Pherozeshah Mehta
D. Ananda Charlu

Answer: C. Pherozeshah Mehta

Q. What was the Early Nationalists’ belief regarding the British rule in India?

A. The British rule was the main obstacle to India’s progress
B. India should achieve immediate independence
C. British rule would help in cleansing social ills
D. They relied on violent methods to achieve their aims

Answer: C. British rule would help in cleansing social ills

Q. What did the Early Nationalists demand regarding the Legislative Councils?

A. Immediate independence for India
B. Abolition of the Legislative Councils
C. Indian control over the public purse
D. Complete separation of the executive and the judiciary

Answer: C. Indian control over the public purse

Q. Which tax did the Early Nationalists demand to be totally abolished?

A. Income Tax
B. Land Revenue Tax
C. Salt Tax
D. Trade Tax

Answer: C. Salt Tax

Q. What did the Early Nationalists demand in terms of civil rights?

A. Repeal of the Indian Penal Code
B. Restoration of the right to assemble and form associations
C. Abolition of the British monarchy
D. Increased military expenditure

Answer: B. Restoration of the right to assemble and form associations

Q. Which of the following leaders was associated with the Early Nationalist phase from Bengal?

A. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
B. Dadabhai Naoroji
C. Rashbehari Ghosh
D. Madan Mohan Malviya

Answer: C. Rashbehari Ghosh

Q. What was one of the administrative demands of the Early Nationalists regarding the Indian Civil Service?

A. Complete abolition of the Civil Service
B. Indianisation of services
C. Expansion of British control
D. Abolition of local bodies

Answer: B. Indianisation of services

Q. What did the Early Nationalists believe was the main obstacle in India’s progress?

A. British colonial rule
B. Social and economic backwardness of Indians
C. Lack of education
D. Excessive taxation

Answer: B. Social and economic backwardness of Indians

Q. Which act did the Early Nationalists demand to be repealed as part of their administrative demands?

A. Salt Act
B. Arms Act
C. Rowlatt Act
D. Government of India Act

Answer: B. Arms Act

Q. What economic reform did the Early Nationalists demand regarding land revenue?

A. Increase in land revenue
B. Total abolition of land revenue
C. Reduction in land revenue
D. Redistribution of land

Answer: C. Reduction in land revenue

Q. Which method did the Early Nationalists primarily rely on to achieve their aims?

A. Violent rebellion
B. Constitutional and peaceful methods
C. Civil disobedience
D. Boycott of British goods

Answer: B. Constitutional and peaceful methods

Q. What was one of the demands of the Early Nationalists regarding the freedom of the press?

A. Government censorship
B. Complete abolition of the press
C. Removal of restrictions on the freedom of the press
D. Introduction of new press laws

Answer: C. Removal of restrictions on the freedom of the press

Q. What was the primary method of agitation used by the Early Nationalists?

A. Violent protests
B. Constitutional Agitation
C. Armed rebellion
D. Non-cooperation movement

Answer: B. Constitutional Agitation

Q. What was the main purpose of the Early Nationalists sending petitions to the British government?

A. To incite rebellion
B. To educate the Indian public
C. To request independence
D. To form a new government

Answer: B. To educate the Indian public

Q. In what year was the British Committee of the Indian National Congress set up in London?

A. 1885
B. 1889
C. 1892
D. 1895

Answer: B. 1889

Q. Which prominent Early Nationalist leader is known as the ‘Grand Old Man of India’?

A. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
B. Surendranath Banerjee
C. Dadabhai Naoroji
D. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Answer: C. Dadabhai Naoroji

Q. What significant economic theory did Dadabhai Naoroji propose?

A. The Drain Theory
B. The Labour Theory
C. The Economic Divide Theory
D. The Wealth Distribution Theory

Answer: A. The Drain Theory

Q. Which Act was introduced as a result of pressure from the Early Nationalists for reforms in the Indian governance system?

A. The Government of India Act, 1919
B. The Indian Councils Act, 1892
C. The Rowlatt Act, 1919
D. The Vernacular Press Act, 1878

Answer: B. The Indian Councils Act, 1892

Q. Who founded the Servants of India Society in 1905?

A. Dadabhai Naoroji
B. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
C. Surendranath Banerjee
D. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Answer: B. Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Q. Which of the following was a criticism of the Early Nationalists?

A. They advocated for violent rebellion
B. They failed to involve the masses in the national movement
C. They sought immediate independence from British rule
D. They collaborated with the British in suppressing uprisings

Answer: B. They failed to involve the masses in the national movement

Q. What was one of the significant contributions of the Early Nationalists to Indian politics?

A. Establishment of a separate Indian government
B. Creation of a united public opinion and national political consciousness
C. Immediate independence from British rule
D. Formation of armed resistance groups

Answer: B. Creation of a united public opinion and national political consciousness

Q. Who among the Early Nationalists was elected thrice as the President of the Indian National Congress?

A. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
B. Dadabhai Naoroji
C. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
D. Surendranath Banerjee

Answer: B. Dadabhai Naoroji

Q. Which nationalist leader is credited with persuading Gandhi to return to India and join the public life?

A. Dadabhai Naoroji
B. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
C. Surendranath Banerjee
D. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Answer: B. Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Q. In which year did the Indian National Congress hold its first session?

A. 1885
B. 1887
C. 1890
D. 1905

Answer: A. 1885

Q. What was the reaction of the British Government towards the Congress in 1887?

A. Encouragement and support
B. Indifference
C. Hostility and criticism
D. Complete ban on Congress activities

Answer: C. Hostility and criticism

Q. Which leader is known for his opposition to the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909?

A. Dadabhai Naoroji
B. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
C. Surendranath Banerjee
D. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Answer: C. Surendranath Banerjee

28. Who founded the Indian Association in 1876?

A. Dadabhai Naoroji
B. Surendranath Banerjee
C. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
D. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Answer: B. Surendranath Banerjee

Extra/additional questions and answers

1. From which class were the Early Nationalists primarily drawn?

Answer: Educated middle class.

Q. What did the Early Nationalists believe about British intentions?

Answer: They believed the British intended to be just to Indians.

Q. Name one leader of the Early Nationalists from Bengal.

Answer: W.C. Bonnerjee.

Q. Who was the Early Nationalist leader from Uttar Pradesh?

Answer: Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya.

Q. Which two leaders represented Maharashtra and Gujarat among the Early Nationalists?

Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.

Q. What did the Early Nationalists believe about the British Crown?

Answer: They believed in loyalty to the British Crown.

Q. What was one of the Early Nationalists’ demands related to governance?

Answer: A larger share in the government of their country.

Q. What economic reform did the Early Nationalists demand regarding land revenue?

Answer: Reduction in land revenue.

Q. What administrative reform did the Early Nationalists demand concerning the Indian Civil Service?

Answer: Indianisation of services through simultaneous Indian Civil Service examinations in England and India.

Q. What was the main objective of the Early Nationalists’ methods?

Answer: To win freedom by a gradual process.

Q. What method did the Early Nationalists primarily follow?

Answer: Constitutional Agitation Method.

Q. What was the first objective of the Early Nationalists?

Answer: To educate people in modern politics.

Q. How did the Early Nationalists aim to influence the British government?

Answer: Through Petitions, Prayers, and Protests.

Q. When was the British Committee of the Indian National Congress set up in London?

Answer: In 1889.

Q. What did the Early Nationalists believe about British rule?

Answer: They believed it had benefits like cleansing social ills.

Q. What were the Early Nationalists criticized for?

Answer: Depending on the generosity of the British instead of relying on their own strength.

Q. What act did the Early Nationalists oppose through petitions?

Answer: The Vernacular Press Act.

Q. Who is known as the ‘Grand Old Man of India’?

Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji.

Q. Which leader exposed the economic ills of British rule in India?

Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji.

Q. What theory did Dadabhai Naoroji propose regarding India’s wealth?

Answer: The Drain Theory.

Q. What did Gopal Krishna Gokhale believe about the goal of the Congress?

Answer: It should be the attainment of a form of government similar to that in the self-governing colonies of the British empire.

Q. What method did Gopal Krishna Gokhale favor for achieving his goals?

Answer: Constitutional means.

Q. What was the main aim of the Servants of India Society?

Answer: To train national leaders dedicated to the service of India.

Q. In which year did Gokhale set up the Servants of India Society?

Answer: 1905.

Q. When did Gokhale become a member of the Imperial Legislative Council?

Answer: 1902.

Q. What did Gokhale try to introduce in the Imperial Legislative Council?

Answer: A bill to make primary education compulsory.

Q. Which tax did Gokhale work to reduce in the Imperial Legislative Council?

Answer: Salt Duty.

Q. When did Gopal Krishna Gokhale die?

Answer: February 15, 1915.

Q. What did Surendranath Banerjee establish in 1876?

Answer: The Indian Association.

Q. In which year did Surendranath Banerjee convene the Indian National Conference?

Answer: 1883.

Q. What newspaper did Surendranath Banerjee edit?

Answer: Bengalee.

Q. What book did Surendranath Banerjee write?

Answer: A Nation in the Making.

Q. When did Surendranath Banerjee die?

Answer: 1925.

Q. Who were the Early Nationalists, and what was their background?

Answer: The Early Nationalists were leaders of the Indian National Congress in its initial years, drawn from the educated middle class, including professionals such as lawyers, barristers, teachers, and officials. Many of them were educated in England and believed in the justice and fairness of the British government. They aimed for constitutional reforms within the framework of British rule and had faith in the British sense of justice, focusing on moderate and peaceful methods to achieve their goals.

Q. What were the key beliefs of the Early Nationalists about British rule in India?

Answer: The Early Nationalists believed in the integrity and justice of the British government and thought that the British would eventually grant Home Rule to Indians. They saw benefits in British rule, such as the eradication of social ills like sati and untouchability. They also believed that the main obstacle to India’s progress was the social and economic backwardness of Indians rather than British colonial rule. They relied on constitutional and peaceful methods to achieve their aims, emphasizing patience and reconciliation over violence and confrontation.

Q. What constitutional reforms did the Early Nationalists demand?

Answer: The Early Nationalists demanded several constitutional reforms, including the abolition of the India Council, expansion of the Legislative Council and Assemblies at both the Centre and in the Provinces, increased Indian representation in these councils, and greater powers for these councils. They also demanded Indian control over the public purse, the slogan “No taxation without representation,” and, by the early 20th century, self-government or Swarajya within the British Empire, similar to the self-governing colonies of Canada and Australia.

Q. What were the Early Nationalists’ demands concerning economic reforms?

Answer: The Early Nationalists made several economic demands, including the reduction of land revenue, protection of peasants from unjust demands of zamindars, reduction of military expenditure, and increased spending on welfare activities such as health and education. They also demanded inquiries into India’s growing poverty and famines, availability of cheap credit to peasants through agricultural banks, development of banking, irrigation, and health facilities, and industrial growth through trade protection, including the abolition of the Salt Tax and the duty on sugar.

Q. What were the two main objectives of the Early Nationalists’ methods?

Answer: The two main objectives of the Early Nationalists were to educate the people of India in modern politics, arouse national political consciousness, and create a united public opinion. For this purpose, they held meetings, made use of the press, and sent memorandums and petitions to government officials and the British Parliament. The second objective was to influence the British government and public by using the methods of Petitions, Prayers, and Protests, setting up a British Committee of the Indian National Congress in London, and sending deputations of Indian leaders to Britain.

Q. How did the Early Nationalists contribute to the Indian national movement?

Answer: The Early Nationalists made significant contributions to the Indian national movement by creating national awakening among the people, making them conscious of the bonds of common political, economic, and cultural interests that united them. They trained people in politics by popularizing the ideas of democracy, civil liberties, secularism, and nationalism. They exposed the true nature of British rule in India, making people realize the economic exploitation under British imperialism, and their efforts led to important reforms like the appointment of a Public Service Commission in 1886 and the Indian Councils Act of 1892.

Q. What were the main criticisms of the Early Nationalists?

Answer: The Early Nationalists were criticized for several reasons. Their methods of passing resolutions and sending petitions were seen as inadequate, as they relied on the generosity of the British instead of relying on their own strength and challenging the imperialist might. They failed to realize that British and Indian interests clashed, with Britain using India’s resources to increase its wealth. Additionally, the Early Nationalists were criticized for failing to draw the masses into the mainstream of the national movement, as their influence was limited to urban educated Indians and professional groups like lawyers, doctors, journalists, and teachers.

Q. What was the official attitude of the British government towards the Congress initially and how did it change?

Answer: Initially, the British government looked upon the Congress movement with favor, with some government officials even attending the first session of the Congress. The members of Congress were invited to a garden party by the Viceroy, Lord Dufferin, in Kolkata in 1886. However, the official attitude soon changed, with Lord Dufferin attacking the National Congress in his speeches and ridiculing it as representing only a “microscopic minority” of the people. The British government eventually forbade government employees from participating in Congress activities, and the policy of “divide and rule” was further pushed, sowing seeds of communalism and hostility towards the Congress.

Q. What issues did Gopal Krishna Gokhale criticize the British Government for, and how did he contribute to reforms?

Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale criticized the British Government for incurring huge expenditures on the British army, adopting racial discrimination in appointments to high posts, and imposing a production tax on cotton. He made a strong plea for the reform of the Legislative Councils and the separation of the judiciary from the executive. Gokhale played an important role in the passage of the Minto-Morley Reforms and served as a member of the Indian Public Service Commission, where he urged for an increase in the share of Indians in higher services.

Q. What was the role of the Servants of India Society, and who were its important members?

Answer: The Servants of India Society, founded by Gopal Krishna Gokhale in 1905, aimed to train national leaders who would dedicate themselves to the service of India. The society focused on cultivating a spirit of service among its members and addressing the social and political challenges of the time. Some of the important members of the society included Srinivas Shastri and Hridaynath Kunzru, who worked alongside Gokhale to promote the ideals of the society and contribute to the Indian freedom struggle.

Q. What were the significant contributions of Surendranath Banerjee to the Indian National Movement?

Answer: Surendranath Banerjee made significant contributions to the Indian National Movement by establishing the Indian Association in 1876, which aimed to educate the people, create strong public opinion, and arouse political consciousness and unity. He also convened the Indian National Conference in 1883, which later merged with the Indian National Congress in 1886. Banerjee was instrumental in mobilizing public opinion through his newspaper, Bengalee, and his book, A Nation in the Making, which outlined his political concerns and views on self-government. He also actively opposed the Morley-Minto Reforms and the Partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon.

Q. What were the main administrative demands of the Early Nationalists?

Answer: The Early Nationalists made several key administrative demands aimed at improving governance in India. These included:

• The Indianisation of services, with simultaneous Indian Civil Service examinations held in England and India.
• The complete separation of the executive and the judiciary to protect Indians from arbitrary actions by the police and bureaucracy.
• Increased powers for local municipal bodies and a reduction of official control over them.
• The repeal of the Arms Act and Licence Act, which were seen as repressive measures.
• Wider employment of Indians in higher grades of administrative services, ensuring they had a role in governance.
• The spread of primary education among the masses to improve literacy and social conditions.
• Improvement of the police system to make it honest, efficient, and popular among the general public.

Q. What were the beliefs of the Early Nationalists regarding social and economic backwardness in India?

Answer: The Early Nationalists believed that the primary obstacle to India’s progress was the social and economic backwardness of the Indian people, rather than the British colonial rule itself. They thought that British rule had brought some benefits to India, such as helping to eliminate social ills like sati, untouchability, and child marriage. They also believed that Britain would assist Indians in governing themselves according to Western standards. The Early Nationalists were convinced that by adopting constitutional and peaceful methods, they could achieve their aims and eventually secure self-government for India within the British Empire.

Q. How did the Early Nationalists aim to defend civil rights in India?

Answer: The Early Nationalists were strong advocates for civil rights and took a firm stand whenever the British government attempted to curtail these freedoms. They demanded the removal of restrictions on freedom of speech and the press, which were crucial for expressing dissent and mobilizing public opinion. They also called for the abolition of the Preventive Detention Act and the restoration of individual liberties, which were often suppressed by the colonial authorities. Additionally, the Early Nationalists sought the restoration of the right to assemble and form associations, which were essential for organizing political movements and advocating for reforms. Through their efforts, democratic ideas began to take root in India, laying the foundation for a broader national movement.

Q. What were the methods adopted by the Early Nationalists to achieve their objectives?

Answer: The Early Nationalists adopted several methods to achieve their objectives, which were aimed at both educating the Indian public and influencing the British government and public.

To educate the Indian people in modern politics, arouse national political consciousness, and create a united public opinion, they relied on the following methods:

• Holding meetings where speeches were made, and resolutions for popular demands were passed.
• Making use of the press to criticize government policies and spread awareness.
• Sending memorandums and petitions to government officials and the British Parliament. These petitions were carefully drafted with facts and arguments, with the real aim of educating the Indian people.

To influence the British government and public, they followed these methods:

• They made use of the three P’s: Petitions, Prayers, and Protests. They sent petitions, requests, and letters of protest to the British government to address the problems faced by Indians.
• The British Committee of the Indian National Congress was set up in London in 1889, which published a weekly journal, India, to present India’s case before the British public.
• Deputations of Indian leaders were sent to Britain. These leaders carried on active propaganda in Britain, with prominent leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji spending a major part of their lives in Britain to create awareness among the British people and politicians about the plight of Indians.

Q. What were the achievements of the Early Nationalists, and how did they influence the later national movement?

Answer: The Early Nationalists were instrumental in laying the foundation for the Indian national movement. Their achievements were significant in several areas:

• National Awakening: They created a sense of national awakening among the Indian people, making them aware that they belonged to one common country—India. This fostered a sense of unity and made Indians conscious of the bonds of common political, economic, and cultural interests that united them.
• Political Training: The Early Nationalists trained people in modern politics by popularizing the ideas of democracy, civil liberties, secularism, and nationalism. This was crucial in preparing future generations of leaders and activists who would continue the struggle for independence.
• Exposing British Rule: They did pioneering work in exposing the true nature of British rule in India, particularly the economic exploitation under British imperialism. By highlighting the economic content and character of British rule, they weakened the foundations of British authority in India.
• Political and Economic Programs: The Early Nationalists established the truth that India must be ruled in the interest of Indians, not the British. Their political and economic programs set the stage for future demands for self-governance and independence.
• Reforms: Their efforts led to several important reforms, including the appointment of a Public Service Commission in 1886, the 1893 resolution of the House of Commons for simultaneous examination for the Indian Civil Services (I.C.S.) in London and India, the appointment of the Welby Commission on Indian Expenditure in 1895, and the passage of the Indian Councils Act of 1892.

Q. Discuss the role and contributions of Dadabhai Naoroji to the Indian national movement.

Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji, popularly known as the ‘Grand Old Man of India,’ was a key figure in the early phase of the Indian national movement. His contributions were significant in several areas:

• Unofficial Ambassador of India: During his stay in England, Naoroji was regarded as India’s unofficial ambassador. In 1865, he founded the London India Society in collaboration with W.C. Bonnerjee, providing a platform to voice Indian grievances. He became the first Indian member of the British House of Commons, where he brought important matters related to India to the attention of the British Parliament, advocating for the appointment of educated Indians to high posts.
• Role in the Congress: Naoroji played a crucial role in the foundation of the Indian National Congress and was elected its President three times, in 1886, 1893, and 1906. Under his leadership, the Congress passed resolutions on self-government, boycott, swadeshi, and national education. He was the first to demand Swaraj (self-government) from the Congress platform in 1906, stating that the Congress wanted self-government similar to that of Canada or Australia.
• Economic Critique of British Rule: As an economic thinker, Naoroji made significant contributions by exposing the economic exploitation of India under British rule. His work, Poverty and Un-British Rule in India, outlined his famous ‘Drain Theory,’ which explained how India’s wealth was being drained to England through various means, leading to widespread poverty in India.

Q. What were the key demands of the Early Nationalists, and how did they aim to achieve them?

Answer: The Early Nationalists had several key demands across various domains—constitutional, economic, administrative, and civil rights—which they aimed to achieve through constitutional and peaceful methods.

Constitutional Reforms:

• They sought a larger share in governance, demanding the abolition of the India Council, expansion of the Legislative Councils, and greater Indian representation within these bodies. They also wanted increased powers for these councils and Indian control over the public purse, encapsulated in the slogan “No taxation without representation.”
• By the early 20th century, they were advocating for Swarajya or self-government within the British Empire, similar to the dominions of Canada and Australia.

Economic Reforms:

• The Early Nationalists called for the reduction of land revenue and protection of peasants from the unjust demands of zamindars.
• They advocated for reducing military expenditure, with the savings redirected towards welfare activities like health and education.
• They also pushed for inquiries into India’s growing poverty and famines, availability of cheap credit to peasants, and the development of banking, irrigation, and health facilities.
• Additionally, they sought industrial growth through trade protection, the abolition of the Salt Tax, and the duty on sugar.

Administrative Reforms:

• The Early Nationalists demanded Indianisation of services through simultaneous Indian Civil Service exams in England and India.
• They wanted the separation of the executive and judiciary to protect Indians from arbitrary actions by the police.
• They also sought increased powers for local municipal bodies, the repeal of the Arms and Licence Acts, and wider employment of Indians in higher administrative roles.
• Other demands included spreading primary education, improving the police system, and making it more efficient and accountable.

Defence of Civil Rights:

• The Early Nationalists were committed to defending civil rights, demanding the removal of restrictions on freedom of speech and the press, the abolition of the Preventive Detention Act, and the restoration of the rights to assemble and form associations.

51. Describe the economic demands of the Early Nationalists and their significance in the Indian freedom struggle.

Answer: The economic demands of the Early Nationalists were focused on addressing the economic exploitation and hardships faced by Indians under British rule. These demands included:

• Reduction in land revenue: They sought to ease the burden on peasants who were subjected to heavy taxes by the colonial government. The Early Nationalists advocated for reducing land revenue and protecting peasants from the unjust demands of zamindars, which was crucial in addressing rural poverty.
• Reduction in military expenditure: The Early Nationalists argued that the British government spent excessively on the military at the expense of welfare activities. They demanded that the money saved from reducing military expenditure be spent on health, education, and other welfare activities that would benefit the Indian population.
• Enquiry into poverty and famines: The Early Nationalists called for an inquiry into the growing poverty and frequent famines in India. They believed that the British policies were responsible for these issues and demanded an investigation to find solutions.
• Availability of cheap credit: Recognizing the importance of credit for agricultural activities, they demanded the availability of cheap credit to peasants through agricultural banks. This would help farmers invest in their lands and improve agricultural productivity.
• Industrial growth: The Early Nationalists advocated for industrial growth through trade protection, meaning that a heavy tax should be imposed on imported goods to protect Indian industries. They also called for government loans to support the development of iron, coal, paper, and sugar industries in India.
• Abolition of the Salt Tax and sugar duty: The Early Nationalists demanded the total abolition of the Salt Tax, which affected the common people, and the duty on sugar to make these essential commodities affordable.