Question

Why did the business class actively support the Civil Disobdience Movement?

• A. They wanted protection against the import of foreign goods.
• B. They wanted a socialist working class.
• C. They wanted a a rupee-sterling foreign exchange ratio.
• D. They wanted a more government controlled economy.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C)

The correct options are
A They wanted protection against the import of foreign goods.
C They wanted a a rupee-sterling foreign exchange ratio.

The business class actively participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement. During the First World War, Indian merchants and industrialists benefitted from the price inflation and war requirement. They made huge profits, and became powerful in the society. They were keen on expanding their business. But repressive colonial policies restricted business activities. The business class wanted protection against the import of foreign goods. The tariff barriers would help reduce the competition from foreign goods. They also wanted a rupee-sterling foreign exchange ratio, which would discourage imports. For them, Swaraj was seen as a time where the colonial restrictions on trade and industry would no longer exist. Thus, they actively supported the Civil Disobedience Movement.