Indians benefit W1 (14)

Question 1

How did Indian soldiers contribute to the British war effort in World War I?

Answer 1

• Over a million Indian soldiers fought for the British in World War I, with thousands sacrificing their lives.
• Their immense service was acknowledged by the British in 1917 when India was promised a greater role in governance, though no details were given.

Question 2

What major political announcement did the British make for India in 1918?

Answer 2

• The British released a report in 1918 suggesting India might be granted self-government.
• This was significant as both the Congress and Muslim League sought self-rule, making it seem like a great reward for India’s support in WWI.

Question 3

How did the Government of India Act of 1919 benefit Indians?

Answer 3

• The Government of India Act of 1919 introduced diarchy at the provincial level, allowing elected Indian ministers control over certain subjects like education, public health, forests, and local government, giving them more power than before.

Question 4

Why was the Government of India Act, of 1919 seen as disappointing?

Answer 4

• Despite giving some authority to Indians, real power remained with the British Viceroy, who could veto any law.
• Key subjects like justice, police, revenue, and press remained under British control.

Question 5

How did the Government of India Act, of 1919 restrict voting rights?

Answer 5

Only 2% of India’s 250 million population (around 5.5 million people) were allowed to vote due to strict eligibility criteria, denying the majority of Indians a say in governance.

Question 6

What was the Rowlatt Act of 1919, and why was it controversial?

Answer 6

• The Rowlatt Act of 1919 allowed arrests without a warrant, and detain them indefinitely, and gave authorities power to restrict people’s movement.
• However, it contradicted British legal principles like trial by jury and protection against illegal imprisonment, showing Britain’s colonial mindset.

Question 7

To what extent did India benefit from supporting Britain in World War I? [CoNCLUsion]

Answer 7

• To conclude, India received only insincere promises of self-rule.
• Despite some political reforms, the British retained real power, restricted voting rights, and imposed harsh laws like the Rowlatt Act, showing continued oppression rather than genuine rewards.