Direct Action (26) Flashcards
Who else, other than Muslim India, was preparing for direct action?
The Raj, Commander-in-Chief Auchinleck, made discreet enquiries among his Indian officers and found them to be loyal to their own concept of ‘India’, but privately warned Viceroy Wavell that he couldn’t envisage Hindu firing at Hindu and Muslim shooting Muslim in any ensuing conflict.
How was Wavell worried about regarding direct action?
His provincial governors, Congress effectively controlled 3/4 of India. With the days of the Raj numbered, police loyalty would be swayed towards those who would inherit power and control. Wavell couldn’t be sure he could contain the gathering storm.
What happened on the 16th August 1946?
Jinnah took India’s Muslims into the horror and violence of civil war.
In Calcutta, police were ordered by the Muslim League to take a special holiday and the streets were controlled by the mob. Within 72 hours, more than 5000 were dead, at least 20,000 seriously injured and 100,000 residents were homeless. Muslims and Hindus murdered each other in the killings, looting and arson that spread across India.
Why did Wavells appeals to Congress and the Muslim League to call a halt to the killings fall on deaf ears?
Wavell was appalled when Gandhi remarked that if India wanted a blood bath, she could have it.
Jinnah had assured Wavell that Pakistan was worth the sacrifice of 10 million Muslims.
What happened regarding government in India?
Against a background of uncontrollable violence, Jawaharlal Nehru was sworn in as PM of an interim government and Wavell managed to persuade a reluctant Jinnah to join the government. He did so only because he believed that the presence of five League members would be as good a means as any to pursue the goal of an independent Pakistan.
Why was Viceroy Wavell removed from office?
He was worn out and having severe doubts about his ability to cope with the increasing strains that 1947 would bring as India moved closer to independence.
It became clear to Cripps and Attlee, partly due to Congress’ wire-pulling behind the scenes and partly through their own dealings with Wavell, that a man with fresh ideas was needed to complete India’s independence.
When was Viceroy Wavell removed from office?
Attlee wrote to Wavell on the 31st January 1947, removing him from his post and offering him an earldom in recognition of his services to the Raj.
Who agreed to become the next Viceroy?
In the first week of January 1947, Admiral Viscount Louis Mountbatten of Burma agreed to become the last Viceroy.
What did Attlee announce to the House of commons in the middle of February 1947?
Power over India will be transferred to ‘responsible Indian hands’ no later than 30th June 1948. By responsible hands, Attlee meant an Indian government capable of maintaining peace.
