Introduction
The First World War (1914–1918) was a major global conflict that had a significant impact on many countries, including India. Although the war was fought mainly in Europe, India was deeply involved as a British colony. Indian soldiers fought in different parts of the world, and the Indian economy and society were affected in many ways. This post explains the political, social, and economic impact of the First World War on India in simple terms.
India’s Role in the First World War
India was under British rule during the war. The British government used Indian soldiers and resources to support its war efforts. Here are some facts:
- More than 1.3 million Indian soldiers were sent to fight in places like France, Africa, and the Middle East.
- India supplied food, money, clothes, and raw materials to the British army.
- Many Indian leaders supported the British war effort, hoping for political reforms in return.
Economic Impact
1. Heavy Economic Burden
The war caused a huge financial strain. India spent around Rs. 146 crores on war-related expenses. Taxes were increased, and the common people suffered.
2. Price Rise and Inflation
Prices of food, clothes, and other goods increased sharply during the war. This hurt poor and middle-class families, who had to spend more on basic needs.
3. Industrial Growth
Since imports from Britain reduced during the war, Indian industries such as textiles, steel, and chemicals grew to fill the gap. This was a boost to Indian industrialization.
4. Shortage of Goods
Many essential goods became scarce as they were sent to support the war. This created hardship for ordinary Indians.
Political Impact
1. Rise of Political Awareness
People started questioning British policies more strongly. The promise of self-government made by the British during the war raised hopes among Indians.
2. Montagu Declaration (1917)
In 1917, Edwin Montagu, the Secretary of State for India, declared that the British government would gradually increase Indian participation in governance. This raised expectations.
3. Rise of New Leaders
Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi became more active after the war. Gandhi returned from South Africa in 1915 and started mobilizing people through peaceful movements.
4. Emergence of Mass Movements
Disappointment with British policies after the war led to the launch of movements like Rowlatt Satyagraha (1919) and the Khilafat Movement.
Social Impact
1. Growth of Nationalism
The shared experience of hardship during the war created a sense of unity among Indians. The demand for Swaraj (self-rule) grew stronger.
2. Impact on Soldiers
Many Indian soldiers who fought in the war came back with new ideas. They had seen different parts of the world and experienced freedom in other countries, which made them question British rule in India.
3. Women’s Participation
With many men away fighting, Indian women started participating more in economic and social activities. This laid the foundation for their future role in the national movement.
Emergence of Repressive Laws
After the war, instead of granting real reforms, the British introduced repressive laws like the Rowlatt Act (1919), which allowed arrest without trial. This created widespread anger and led to mass protests.
Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919)
One of the most tragic effects of the post-war period was the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, where British troops killed hundreds of peaceful protestors. This shocked the entire nation and turned many loyalists into nationalists.
Conclusion
The First World War had a deep impact on India. It caused economic hardship but also helped the growth of Indian industries. Politically, it raised hopes for self-rule, but the failure of the British to fulfill promises led to discontent. The war changed the mindset of Indians and gave new energy to the freedom struggle. The period after the war saw the beginning of mass movements under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, marking a turning point in India’s fight for independence.