Question

The Swadeshi and Boycott Movement was a turning point in the history of Indian Nationalism. With reference to the above, describe briefly:
(a) Inculcation of National spirit.
(b) Contribution to Nationalist Movement.
(c) Making Indians self-reliant.

Answer 1

The Swadeshi movement was in protest of the Government’s decision to partition Bengal had been made public in July 1905. It called for boycott of all British goods and buy Indian products only. This inculcated a feeling of self-reliance by reducing the dependence on foreign goods.

The movement also increased the demand for national education and numerous national schools and colleges came up in various parts. Different sections of society came out in large numbers to propagate and practice swadeshi which served in inculcating a national spirit among the population.

Movements in support of Bengal’s unity and the Swadeshi and boycott agitation were organized in many parts of the country which imparted a nationalist movement character to the agitation.