Introduction to Modern Indian History The session begins with an overview of modern Indian history, emphasizing its significance and the timeline from ancient times up to 1857. The focus is on understanding the emergence of modern values such as governance, education, humanism, and societal reforms. These elements are pivotal in determining whether a period can be designated as 'modern.'
Timeline Overview: British Rule in India British rule is divided into two phases: Company Rule (1765-1857) starting with battles like Plassey and Buxar; Crown Rule (1858-1947). Key events include administrative changes like land revenue systems—Permanent Settlement—and constitutional acts regulating governance.
Administrative Reforms Under British Dominance The British introduced judicial structures under laws like the Regulating Act of 1773 while implementing varied land revenue systems across regions. Their administration aimed at consolidating power rather than benefiting Indians.
'Good Government' Act Post-Revolt Era Reformations 'Act for Good Governance' marked non-interference by Britain in socio-religious matters unless requested by Indians themselves after movements led reform demands forwardly e.g., Widow Remarriage Acts etc.. It also established India's Council aiding Secretary-of-State managing territories abroad but funded locally creating resentment over home charges expenses paid via colonial revenues instead!
The Role of Extremist Leaders in Communalism British policies exploited communal divisions, but extremist leaders also conditioned youth towards a fertile ground for communal identity. Orthodox leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak opposed reforms such as the Age of Consent Act and resisted social changes involving women and depressed classes. Their limited effectiveness was evident during 1908-1916 when key figures faced exile or imprisonment, reducing their impact on India's national movement.
Gandhian Movement's Phases and Strategy The Gandhian phase began with mass movements from 1920 to 1944 interspersed by periods of truce focused on constructive work. Gandhi’s strategy alternated between struggle through truth (Satyagraha) and preparation for future struggles while emphasizing nonviolence, moral responsibility among masses, inspirational leadership, patience endurance under Satyagraha principles.
Diverse Perspectives on Gandhi's Leadership Historiographical schools differ: Marxists see Gandhi as bourgeoisie leader; ultra-nationalists view him as British collaborator resisting violent freedom efforts; subaltern historians credit his role in mobilizing common people across regions despite criticisms from other perspectives about his methods' inclusivity or efficacy.
'Champaran', 'Ahmedabad Mill Strike,' & 'Kheda Satyagraha' Successes 'Champaran’ addressed Indigo farmers’ exploitation via inquiry committees ensuring partial tax reimbursement symbolizing moral victory over British oppression. In Ahmedabad strike led by Anasuya Sarabhai against mill owners demanding plague bonus continuation succeeded after hunger strikes pressured resolution favoring workers amidst Spanish influenza hardships.' Kheda satyra involved revenue collection resistance due drought conditions fostering unity amongst peasants supported strategically avoiding direct confrontation yet achieving relief measures effectively demonstrating early success stories within Gandhis framework