Class 10 History
Nationalism in India
Detailed Revision Notes
1. Introduction
Nationalism in India emerged as a result of British colonial rule. The British policies led to economic
exploitation, political domination and social injustice. Gradually, Indians developed a sense of unity
and collective struggle. Nationalism was strengthened through mass movements, leadership of
Mahatma Gandhi and participation of different social groups.
2. Impact of the First World War on India
• Increase in defence expenditure which led to higher taxes.
• Rise in prices of essential goods causing hardship to common people.
• Forced recruitment of soldiers from villages.
• Shortage of food grains leading to famine conditions in some areas.
3. Khilafat and Non-Cooperation Movement
Khilafat Movement (1919)
The Khilafat Movement was launched to defend the powers of the Ottoman Caliph. It was led by
Muhammad Ali and Shaukat Ali and supported by Mahatma Gandhi. The movement helped in
bringing Hindus and Muslims together against British rule.
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920)
• Boycott of foreign goods and promotion of khadi.
• Boycott of government schools, colleges and law courts.
• Surrender of titles and honours given by the British.
• Participation of students, teachers, peasants and workers.
The movement was withdrawn in 1922 after the Chauri Chaura incident, where violence broke out
and policemen were killed. Gandhiji believed that a non-violent movement should not turn violent.
4. Different Social Groups and Nationalism
Peasants
Peasants participated to demand reduction in land revenue and abolition of oppressive practices. In
Awadh, the movement was led by Baba Ramchandra.
Tribal People
Tribal communities opposed British forest laws which restricted their traditional rights. They wanted
freedom to use forest resources.
Plantation Workers
Nationalism in India
Detailed Revision Notes
1. Introduction
Nationalism in India emerged as a result of British colonial rule. The British policies led to economic
exploitation, political domination and social injustice. Gradually, Indians developed a sense of unity
and collective struggle. Nationalism was strengthened through mass movements, leadership of
Mahatma Gandhi and participation of different social groups.
2. Impact of the First World War on India
• Increase in defence expenditure which led to higher taxes.
• Rise in prices of essential goods causing hardship to common people.
• Forced recruitment of soldiers from villages.
• Shortage of food grains leading to famine conditions in some areas.
3. Khilafat and Non-Cooperation Movement
Khilafat Movement (1919)
The Khilafat Movement was launched to defend the powers of the Ottoman Caliph. It was led by
Muhammad Ali and Shaukat Ali and supported by Mahatma Gandhi. The movement helped in
bringing Hindus and Muslims together against British rule.
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920)
• Boycott of foreign goods and promotion of khadi.
• Boycott of government schools, colleges and law courts.
• Surrender of titles and honours given by the British.
• Participation of students, teachers, peasants and workers.
The movement was withdrawn in 1922 after the Chauri Chaura incident, where violence broke out
and policemen were killed. Gandhiji believed that a non-violent movement should not turn violent.
4. Different Social Groups and Nationalism
Peasants
Peasants participated to demand reduction in land revenue and abolition of oppressive practices. In
Awadh, the movement was led by Baba Ramchandra.
Tribal People
Tribal communities opposed British forest laws which restricted their traditional rights. They wanted
freedom to use forest resources.
Plantation Workers
