Reasons for the Rise of Militant Nationalism (1905-1909)
The rise of militant nationalism in India during the early 20th century was driven by several key factors, which led to a shift from moderate methods to more radical political action.
1. Failure of Moderate Politics
- Initially, moderates exposed the exploitative nature of British rule and raised popular demands through petitions and speeches. However, the British government did not accept any significant demands, causing frustration.
- By the late 19th century, many Indians felt that moderate methods like petitions and memorials were ineffective, and a more forceful approach was needed to achieve political rights.
2. Recognition of the True Nature of British Rule
- The belief that British rule could be reformed from within was shattered by political events between 1892 and 1905.
- The **Indian Councils Act of 1892** was a disappointment.
- The **deportation of the Natu brothers** in 1897 without trial, and the **imprisonment of Lokamanya Tilak** and other leaders for opposing British policies further disillusioned Indians.
- Many Indians realized that British rule was primarily exploitative and that self-government was essential for India’s progress.
3. Growth of Education and Unemployment
- By the late 19th century, many educated Indians faced unemployment or were underpaid in administrative jobs.
- This economic distress made educated Indians critical of British rule, and they began to support radical nationalist politics, recognizing that only Indian governance could improve their situation.
4. Growth of Self-respect and Self-confidence
- Leaders like **Bal Gangadhar Tilak** and **Bipin Chandra Pal** preached self-respect and the need for Indians to rely on their own abilities.
- This growing sense of confidence led to a push to involve the masses in the national movement, rather than relying solely on the educated elite.
5. Existence of a Militant Nationalist School of Thought
- A school of militant nationalism had existed from the early days of the national movement, with leaders like **Rajnarain Bose**, **Ashwini Kumar Dutt**, and **Vishnu Shastri Chiplunkar**.
- Key leaders of militant nationalism, including **Tilak**, **Bipin Chandra Pal**, **Aurobindo Ghose**, and **Lala Lajpat Rai**, believed that mass action and direct confrontation were essential to achieving **Swaraj** (self-rule).
6. International Influences
- Several international events shattered the myth of European superiority and inspired Indian nationalists:
- **Ethiopia’s victory over Italy** in 1896.
- **British reverses in the Boer War** (1899-1902) in South Africa.
- **Japan’s victory over Russia** in 1905.
- These events convinced Indians that even powerful colonial powers could be challenged through unity and sacrifice.
7. Lord Curzon's Administration
- Lord Curzon’s policies and repressive measures further angered Indian nationalists:
- **Calcutta Corporation Act (1899):** Reduced Indian representation in local governance.
- **Universities Act (1904):** Curbed the autonomy of universities and brought them under government control.
- **Official Secrets Act (1904):** Restricted the freedom of the press.
- **Partition of Bengal (1905):** Seen as an attempt to divide Bengalis and weaken the nationalist movement, the partition provoked massive opposition.
Conclusion
The rise of militant nationalism was fueled by the failure of moderate politics, growing dissatisfaction with British rule, and increasing international influences. The administration of Lord Curzon and his repressive measures played a major role in escalating the demand for more radical and aggressive strategies in the fight for India's independence.
