Nationalism refers to the feeling of oneness that emerges when people consider themselves as one nation. With reference to the growth of nationalism, answer the following:
(i) Name the first President of the Congress. Mention any two objectives of the Congress.
(ii) Whether it is fiction, non-fiction, or periodical, all kinds of literature contributed at large in the national consciousness of India in pre-independence times. Mention any three points to analyse the role of the press in the growth of nationalism.
(iii) Explain any two policies of Lord Lytton that showcased his attitude of racial superiority, eventually leading to the growth of nationalism.
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(i) The first President of the Indian National Congress was W.C. Bonnerjee. Two objectives of the Indian National Congress are given below:
- To promote friendly relations between nationalist political workers from different parts of the country.
- To formulate popular demands and present them before the government.
(ii) The press played an important role in the growth of Indian Nationalism in the following ways:
- The press helped spread the ideals of patriotism, modern liberal ideas of liberty, freedom, and equality.
- The Press criticised the British policies, and made the Indians aware of the happenings in the world.
- The Press helped Indians exchange views, and played an important role in the Indian freedom struggle.
(iii) Two repressive policies enforced by Lord Lytton that led to the rise of nationalism were:
- Vernacular Press Act (1878) – This Act banned Indian-language newspapers from publishing anti-British content, curbing freedom of expression. English newspapers were exempt.
- Indian Arms Act (1878) – Indians were prohibited from possessing arms without a licence, while Europeans faced no such restriction, highlighting racial discrimination.