Day-1 Answer Writing Challenge : Model Answer

Question: 1. Discuss the Reasons what lead to strengthening of Indian National Movement after the Queen’s proclamation of 1858?

The strengthening of the Indian National Movement after the Queen’s Proclamation of 1858 can be attributed to various factors. The proclamation, also known as the ‘Royal Proclamation,’ marked the end of the Indian Rebellion of 1857 & also East India Company’s Administration came to an End  and the beginning of the formal British Raj in India.

Several reasons contributed to the resurgence and strengthening of the Indian National Movement during and after this period:

1. Reassurance and Restoration of Respect: The Queen’s Proclamation included several provisions that aimed at reassuring Indians, emphasizing religious tolerance, and promising the protection of their customs and traditions. This helped in restoring the respect and confidence of many Indians in the British Crown.
2. Reconciliation Efforts: The British recognized the need to reconcile with the Indian population after the brutal suppression of the 1857 revolt. The proclamation aimed at winning back the loyalty of Indians, which created an environment conducive to the growth of political reform movements.
3. Amnesty and Pardon: The proclamation granted amnesty to many of those who had participated in the 1857 revolt. This act of clemency allowed some leaders and freedom fighters to return to mainstream political and social life, contributing to the resurgence of the Indian National Movement.
4. Political Consciousness: The events of 1857-1858 played a pivotal role in fostering political consciousness among the Indian masses. They began to understand the need for collective action and political reform, which laid the foundation for the Indian National Movement.
5. Educational Reforms: The British government initiated certain educational reforms after the revolt, which expanded access to modern education in India. This played a significant role in raising political awareness and nurturing future leaders of the Indian National Movement.
6. Role of Early Nationalist Leaders: Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, and others had already started laying the groundwork for political activism and reform in the pre-1857 period. Their efforts gained momentum and wider support after the Queen’s Proclamation.
7. Formation of Political Associations: The period following the proclamation witnessed the formation of various political and social organizations such as the Indian Association, Indian National Conference, and Indian National Congress. These associations became platforms for discussing and promoting political reforms.
8. Press and Publications: The lifting of strict censorship on the press and publications allowed Indian intellectuals and nationalists to express their views more openly. Newspapers and pamphlets became important tools for spreading nationalist ideas.
9. International Influences: The 19th century was a period of global anti-colonial and nationalist movements. Indians were influenced by international events and ideas, such as the American Revolution, the French Revolution, and the ideals of democracy and self-determination.
10. Economic Exploitation: The economic exploitation of India by the British colonial administration became more apparent in the post-1858 period, fueling discontent and nationalism. People began to realize that India’s wealth was being drained for the benefit of the British Empire.

In summary, the Queen’s Proclamation of 1858 played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the Indian National Movement. It gave rise to a new phase of political activism and reform efforts, leading to the eventual struggle for India’s independence. The factors mentioned above, coupled with the changing socio-political landscape, contributed to the strengthening of the movement in the years that followed.