Question

The methods of the Early Nationalists were criticised as inadequate and half-hearted. In this context, briefly describe the following:
(a) Nature of their methods.
(b) Reasons for the partial failure of their methods.
(c) The final outcome of their efforts.

Answer 1

a) The Early Nationalists followed the Constitutional Agitational Method to put forward their demands. They held meetings and gave speeches for pressing their demands.They criticised the policies of the government through press. The Early Nationalists have been criticised for using petitions and prayers to the government as a method of agitation.

b) The early nationalists couldn't understand that the priorities of the British and the Indians came into conflict and British used India's resources to increase their prosperity & wealth. They had hoped that the British will give Indians "Home Rule."

c) The Early Nationalists fostered the concept of ‘nation’ in the minds of Indians. They exposed the true nature of the British Empire and highlighted the economic exploitation India was going through. They trained people in modern liberal political activity by popularising the ideas of democracy, civil liberties, secularism and nationalism.