Question

The Early Nationalists initially believed that the British wanted to be just to India but were unaware of the real state of affairs. In this context, answer the following questions:
(a) What was the attitude of these leaders towards the British?
(b) Why did they develop such an attitude?
(c) How did they expose the true nature of British rule in India?

Answer 1

a) The early nationalists had faith in British sense of justice and fair play. They believed that the British would grant ‘Home Rule’ to Indians. They believed that the British rule has positively influenced the Indian society by banning sati, female infanticide and by raising the minimum age of girls and boys for marriage.

b) The Early Nationalists believed in demanding reforms while adopting constitutional and peaceful means to achieve their aims. The Early Nationalists had full faith in the British sense of justice, fair play, honesty, and integrity.

c) Early nationalists like Dada Bhai Naoroji played an important role in exposing the true nature of the British rule. The Early nationalists criticised the British rule in newspapers, journals and magazines.