Why did demands for Home Rule grow in the years from 1900 - 1919? (5) Flashcards
What long term reasons were there?
Since 1858, the British in India cut themselves off to a greater extent from Indians.
Transfer of the government of India to Westminster had made it extremely remote and it became incredibly difficult for Indians to exert any influence.
The administrative changes introduced since 1858 had placed power almost exclusively in British hands.
Indian economy was subjugated to British needs, controls on cotton made development almost impossible.
What did Allan Hume, a British official, establish in an attempt to relieve some of the political problems?
The Indian National Congress was founded in 1885 as a meeting place and pressure group for English-speaking, educated, middle class Indians.
What short term reasons were there?
Curzon viewed as high-handed and showed little interest in Indian opinion, proven by the partition of Bengal in 1905
In 1906, the Indian National Congress demanded home rule for the first time and the All-India Muslim League was set up and sent a deputation to meet Curzon at Simla.
What was the Simla Deputation?
The Simla Deputation consisted of around 70 delegates representing various shades of Muslim opinion who had drawn up a plan for separate electorates to safeguard their interests.
Why did Muslim leaders create the Simla Deputation?
Congress’ strong opposition to the Bengal partition proved to the Muslim community that they wouldn’t be fairly treated by a Hindu-dominated organisation.
What did the Simla Deputation emphasise?
That the Muslim community shouldn’t be judged by its numerical strength alone, but by political importance and the service it had rendered to the Empire. It also pointed out Western democracy wasn’t appropriate for India and stressed the need for care when introducing or extending the electoral system, whether local or national.
How did Viceroy Minto respond?
He assured the Deputation that their political rights and interest would be safeguarded in any administrative reorganisation he was involved in.
