Complete Guide For Class 8 History Chapter 8 – The Making of the National Movement- 1870s – 1947

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The chapter “The Making of the National Movement: 1870s – 1947” from the class 8 history NCERT book provides a comprehensive overview of India’s struggle for independence. This chapter covers key events and significant personalities that shaped the national movement over seven decades. Understanding this period is crucial for grasping the evolution of Indian nationalism, the strategies employed by leaders, and the mass mobilization of people. The importance of the chapter lies in its detailed portrayal of the challenges faced and the perseverance shown by Indians in their quest for freedom.

Objectives of the Chapter

Now that we understand the importance of studying this chapter, let’s explore the objectives behind “The Making of the National Movement: 1870s – 1947”

• To understand the early stages of Indian nationalism and the factors that contributed to its rise.
• To explore how nationalism transitioned from elite-led movements to mass participation.
• To understand the significance of the Salt March in the broader context of the freedom struggle.
• To analyze the final phase of the Indian independence movement leading up to 1947.

Let’s now understand the various sections of the chapter in detail.

Now, to understand the beginnings of India’s fight for independence, let us delve into the section ‘The Emergence of Nationalism’ of the chapter “The Making of the National Movement: 1870s – 1947.”

The Emergence of Nationalism

• This section delves into the initial phase of Indian nationalism, highlighting the economic, political, and social discontent that fostered a sense of unity among Indians. 
• It covers the formation of early political associations like the Indian National Congress in 1885, which provided a platform for expressing nationalist aspirations. 
• Influential leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Surendranath Banerjee, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak played pivotal roles during this period, advocating for self-governance and economic reforms.

Now let us understand the key points covered in the section ‘The Emergence of Nationalism’.

1. A Nation in the Making

In its first twenty years, the Congress was “moderate” in its objectives and methods, demanding greater Indian participation in government and administration, Indianisation of the civil service to combat racism, and economic reforms to reduce poverty and famines. The Congress sought public awareness of British injustices, publishing articles and mobilizing opinion against economic exploitation, high land revenue, and poor treatment of laborers and forest dwellers. Believing in British ideals of freedom and justice, they hoped to achieve their demands through reasoned dialogue.

2. “Freedom is our Birthright”

By the 1890s, leaders like Bepin Chandra Pal, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Lala Lajpat Rai criticized the Congress Moderates for their passive approach and advocated for more radical methods. They believed in self-reliance and the need for an active struggle for swaraj, exemplified by Tilak’s slogan, “Freedom is my birthright and I shall have it!” The 1905 partition of Bengal by Viceroy Curzon, which aimed to weaken Bengali influence, sparked widespread outrage and the Swadeshi movement, promoting self-help and boycotts. The period also saw the rise of the All-India Muslim League, demanding separate electorates for Muslims, and the eventual reconciliation of Congress factions in 1915 with the Lucknow Pact.

This section illustrates how the seeds of nationalism were sown, highlighting the early efforts to forge a united Indian identity and the relentless pursuit of freedom from colonial rule.

Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Now, to understand the evolution and expansion of the Indian nationalist movement, let us delve into the section ‘The Growth of Mass Nationalism’ of the chapter ‘The Making of the National Movement- 1870s – 1947’.

The Growth of Mass Nationalism

• This section examines the spread of nationalist sentiments among the masses, especially under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. 
• The chapter highlights significant events such as the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22), the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34), and the role of the Indian National Congress in mobilizing people across different strata of society. 
• Gandhi’s emphasis on non-violent resistance and civil disobedience became the hallmark of the mass nationalist movements, drawing widespread support from farmers, workers, and women.

Now let’s learn about the key points covered in this section.

1. The Advent of Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi returned to India in 1915 and quickly became a prominent leader. He emphasized non-violent resistance and mass mobilization, gaining widespread support across the country.

2. The Rowlatt Satyagraha

The Rowlatt Act, introduced in 1919, allowed the British government to imprison people without trial. In response, Gandhi launched a nationwide satyagraha against the act, leading to widespread protests and hartals (strikes).

3. Khilafat Agitation and the Non-Cooperation Movement

Muslims in India were protesting against the dismemberment of the Ottoman Empire and the abolition of the Caliphate through the Khilafat Movement. Seeing this as an opportunity to unite Hindus and Muslims, Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920, urging Indians to withdraw from British institutions, boycott foreign goods, and promote self-reliance.

4. People’s Initiatives

Ordinary people organized local protests, boycotts, and self-help initiatives, with women and students playing significant roles in mobilizing support for the nationalist cause.

5. The People’s Mahatma

Mahatma Gandhi was perceived as a savior of the oppressed and became a symbol of the struggle for freedom, with his simple lifestyle and dedication to non-violence resonating deeply with millions of Indians.

6. The Happenings of 1922–1929

The Chauri Chaura incident in 1922 marked a turning point when a violent clash led Gandhi to call off the Non-Cooperation Movement, underscoring his commitment to non-violence. In the wake of this, leaders like Motilal Nehru and C.R. Das formed the Swaraj Party to enter legislative councils and disrupt British policies from within. The arrival of the Simon Commission in 1928, which excluded Indian members, sparked widespread protests across the nation, encapsulated by the defiant slogan “Simon Go Back.”

These key points highlight the period’s major developments, showcasing the transition of the Indian freedom struggle from elite leadership to mass participation, guided by Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and self-reliance.

Now, to understand the significance of ‘The March to Dandi’, let us delve into the section ‘The March to Dandi’ of the chapter ‘The Making of the National Movement – 1870s – 1947’.

The March to Dandi

• This section focuses on the Dandi March, also known as the Salt March, led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930. 
• It was a direct action campaign of tax resistance and nonviolent protest against the British salt monopoly. 
• The march garnered massive participation and international attention, symbolizing the defiance of unjust laws. 
• It marked a critical juncture in the Indian independence movement, demonstrating the power of collective action and nonviolent resistance.

Now let us understand the key points covered in this section ‘The March to Dandi’:

1. Initiation of the Salt March: 

The section discusses Mahatma Gandhi’s decision to lead the Salt March in 1930 as a form of nonviolent protest against the British salt tax, which was seen as a symbol of British oppression.

2. Route and Challenges: 

It details the route Gandhi took from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, covering over 240 miles. The march faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather and resistance from British authorities.

3. Mass Mobilization: 

The march successfully mobilized widespread support, drawing attention both within India and internationally. It demonstrated the power of peaceful protest and mass mobilization in the fight for independence.

4. Impact and Significance: 

The Salt March was pivotal in the Indian independence movement. It not only challenged British economic policies but also strengthened the Indian National Congress’s position and Gandhi’s leadership, marking a significant step towards India’s independence.

Now, to understand the post-1942 developments and their impact on the independence struggle, let us delve into the section ‘Quit India and Later’ of the chapter ‘The Making of the National Movement – 1870s – 1947’.

Quit India and Later

• This section covers the Quit India Movement launched by the Indian National Congress in 1942, which called for an end to British rule in India. 
• Despite the brutal suppression and mass arrests, the movement intensified the demand for independence. 
• The chapter also discusses the post-war political developments, the negotiations between the British government and Indian leaders, and the eventual partition and independence of India in 1947. 
• Key figures like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, and Subhas Chandra Bose are highlighted for their contributions during this period.

Now let us understand the key points covered in the section ‘Quit India and Later’. This section explores the pivotal period after the Quit India Movement of 1942 when the struggle for independence intensified.

1. Quit India Movement (1942): 

The Quit India Movement was a mass protest against British rule, demanding an immediate end to colonial control. It was led by Mahatma Gandhi and saw widespread demonstrations, strikes, and civil disobedience. Despite severe repression, the movement highlighted the growing demand for complete independence.

2. Repression and Arrests: 

In response to the Quit India Movement, the British authorities cracked down on protestors, arresting leaders, and suppressing activities. Many leaders, including Gandhi, were imprisoned, which led to further unrest and heightened the sense of urgency for independence.

3. Impact of World War II: 

The global conflict of World War II weakened Britain economically and politically. This situation made it increasingly difficult for the British government to maintain control over its colonies, accelerating discussions about India’s future.

4. Post-War Developments: 

After World War II, the British government faced mounting pressure both internationally and domestically. The Labour government elected in 1945 was more sympathetic to Indian aspirations, leading to negotiations with Indian leaders.

5. Independence and Partition (1947): 

The British government, facing growing unrest and the demands for independence, eventually agreed to transfer power. The result was the partition of India and Pakistan in August 1947, marking the end of British rule and the beginning of two separate nations.

This section encapsulates the final phase of India’s struggle for independence, highlighting the critical events and shifts that led to the end of British colonial rule.

Now that we have discussed the whole chapter, let us know the overall learning value of the chapter “The Making of the National Movement: 1870s – 1947”.

Overall Learning Value of the Chapter

The chapter “The Making of the National Movement: 1870s – 1947” provides an in-depth look at the evolution of India’s struggle for freedom. It emphasizes the emergence of nationalism, the transition to mass movements, the significance of the Dandi March, and the final push towards independence. By studying this chapter, students gain valuable insights into the strategies, sacrifices, and resilience of the Indian people and their leaders in achieving independence. This chapter not only highlights the historical events but also instills a sense of pride and understanding of the nation’s journey to freedom.