Question

Explain the factors responsible for the growth of nationalism in 19th century.

Answer 1

In 19th century, still we didn't have full fledged nationalism as many princely states were there, but in this century, 1857's revolt was path breaking.

V.D. Savarkar described revolt as a 'First War of Independence' whereas some said it was just 'A Sepoy Mutiny', some said it was neither first nor the war of independence.

Reasons behind revolt were many, like:

1. Britishers interference in religious matters like banning sati
2. Rumors about beef, pork field in Enfield rifle's cartridge
3. Economic hardships faced by people
4. Expansionary policies of Britishers etc.

This revolt gave a hope to the people.

At the end of the century, nationalism grew, people like Bal Gangadhar Tilak started using religious festivals, literature to mobilize people. Dadabhai Naoroji, R.C.Dutt came with economic theories to show how Britishers were looting India & awareness grew among the masses. Gopal Krishna Gokhle, Guru of Gandhiji organized constitutional protests.

So, basically after 1857 revolt, people came together to fight foreign power.