NCERT Notes: Grade 8 History - Chapter 11: The Making of the National Movement

Introduction

The national movement in India is a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people. This chapter elucidates the journey of India’s quest for independence, its leaders, and the ideologies that shaped the movement.

1. Early Political Associations

Before the Indian National Congress (INC) was formed, various regional associations were voicing political concerns.

• Bengal’s Leaders: Surendranath Banerjee, Dwijendranath Tagore.

• Notable Associations: The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha, the Indian Association of Calcutta.

2. The Emergence of the INC

Founded in 1885, the INC initially believed in moderate politics, emphasizing dialogue and reforms.

• Founding Fathers: A.O. Hume, Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee, Dadabhai Naoroji.

• Early demands: Moderate leaders sought constitutional reforms and a bigger role in governance.

3. The Rise of Extremism

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed a shift towards a more aggressive stance against colonial rule.

• Notable Leaders: Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, Lala Lajpat Rai (collectively known as Lal-Bal-Pal).

• Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: Marked a pivotal moment, fueling nationalistic fervor against British atrocities.

4. Gandhian Era

Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership introduced non-violence and civil disobedience as powerful tools against colonialism.

• Champaran, Kheda, and Ahmedabad: Gandhi’s initial campaigns.

• Non-Cooperation Movement: Called for boycotting British goods and institutions.

• Civil Disobedience Movement: Protest against the salt tax, exemplified by the Dandi March.

• Quit India Movement: Demanding immediate independence during WWII.

5. Diverse Strands of the Movement

India’s national movement was a tapestry of diverse ideologies, methods, and participants.

• Revolutionaries: Leaders like Bhagat Singh and organizations like the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) advocated for direct action against the British.

• Women in the Movement: Women played a crucial role, with figures like Sarojini Naidu and Vijayalakshmi Pandit at the forefront.

• Peasant Movements: Protests against oppressive landlordism and taxation.

6. The Idea of Swaraj

“Swaraj” or self-rule became the rallying cry of the national movement.

• Different Visions: For Gandhi, it meant self-governance; for others, complete political independence.

• Emphasis on Local Governance: Gandhian vision highlighted the role of village panchayats in governance.

7. The Decline of Colonial Rule

Post-WWII, Britain’s weakened global position, coupled with India’s united demand for freedom, led to the end of British rule.

• Naval Mutiny 1946: Symbolized the declining British grip over India.

• Mountbatten Plan: Envisioned India’s partition and set a date for British departure.

8. Independence and Partition

1947 marked both the joy of freedom and the agony of partition.

• Challenges: Communal riots, rehabilitation of refugees, princely states’ integration.

• Legacy: The national movement’s ideals continue to guide India’s democratic spirit and institutions.

Conclusion

The making of India’s national movement was not just about political change, but a profound socio-cultural and ideological transformation. The movement, with its myriad leaders, ideologies, and methodologies, is a testament to India’s rich history of resistance, resilience, and reinvention.

---

Reference: NCERT Grade 8 History - Chapter 11: The Making of the National Movement

Note: This article provides an SEO-optimized summary of India’s national movement and its evolution. For an exhaustive study and detailed insights, students should refer to the original NCERT textbook.