Paper 2, Topic 1 - The First World War and its impact on British India, 1914–20

What was the political structure of India in 1914 under the British Raj?

India in 1914 was governed under the British Raj, established after the Government of India Act 1858, following the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Power ultimately rested with the British Crown.

• The British monarch was represented by the Viceroy of India.

• India was divided into:

  • British India was directly governed by Britain.

  • Princely States ruled by Indian princes under British supervision.

• There were around 565 princely states, covering about one-third of India.

• The Indian Civil Service (ICS) administered India.

• Most senior positions were held by Britons.

• The Raj relied on: Military strength, Support from Indian Princes, Divide-and-rule policies, Economic Control

Why was India known as the “Jewel in the Crown” of the British Empire?

India was called the “Jewel in the Crown” because it was Britain’s most valuable colony economically, strategically, and militarily.

• India provided huge markets for British-manufactured goods.

• It supplied raw materials including: Cotton, jute, tea, wheat and opium

• India’s geographic position strengthened Britain’s control of Asia and trade routes.

• India’s army supported British imperial interests globally.

What were the main religious groups in India in 1914?

• Hindus: around 70% of the population.

• Muslims: around 20–25%.

• Sikhs

• The British often encouraged divisions between religious communities through “divide and rule” policies.

How did social divisions shape Indian society in 1914?

Indian society was deeply divided by:

• Religion

• Caste

• Class

• Region

• Language

A Western-educated Indian elite emerged through British education.

This group:

• Became politically active.

• Dominated the Indian National Congress.

• Demanded greater Indian participation in government.

Why was the Indian Army important to Britain before 1914?

• Protected British rule in India.

• Defended imperial frontiers.

• Fought in imperial wars abroad.

• Reduced the need for expensive British troops.

• By 1914, the Indian army had around 240,000 men

What attitudes did many British officials hold towards Indians before 1914?

• Indians were considered incapable of self-government.

• British rule was presented as a “civilising mission.”

• British officials often distrusted Indian nationalism.

• Racial segregation existed socially and politically.

What were the aims of the Indian National Congress before 1914?

The Indian National Congress (INC), founded in 1885, initially aimed for moderate constitutional reform rather than independence.

• Greater Indian representation in government.

• Expansion of civil rights.

• More opportunities for Indians in administration.

• Reform of taxation and spending.

How did India respond to the outbreak of the First World War in 1914?

India strongly supported Britain at the outbreak of war.

• Indian princes wanted to show loyalty.

• Congress leaders hoped loyalty would lead to reforms.

• Many believed Britain would reward India politically after the war

What was India’s military contribution during the First World War?

• Around 1.3 million Indian soldiers and labourers served overseas.

• Over 74,000 Indian soldiers died.

What financial contribution did India make during the First World War?

• India contributed around £146 million to the war effort.

• Indian princes donated money, troops, horses, and medical units.

• Taxes increased during the war.

• Britain borrowed heavily from India.

What was the economic impact of the First World War on India?

The war caused major economic disruption in India.

• Inflation rose sharply.

• Prices of basic goods increased e.g food grain prices soared by 93%

• Taxes increased.

• Shortages developed, e.g., essential fuels.

• Rural hardship worsened.

How did the war affect British rule in India?

The First World War weakened the foundations of British rule.

• Britain became more dependent on Indian support.

• Indian expectations of reform increased.

• Nationalism spread rapidly.

• Economic hardship caused unrest.

• Returning soldiers brought new political awareness.

What was the Montagu Declaration (1917)?

The Montagu Declaration was announced by Edwin Montagu, Secretary of State for India, in August 1917.

It promised:

• “The gradual development of self-governing institutions.”

• “Responsible government” in India.

Reasons for the declaration:

• Reward Indian wartime loyalty.

• Reduce nationalist unrest.

• Maintain support during the war.

It laid the groundworks for the Government of India Act of 1919.

Why was the Montagu Declaration significant?

Why was the Montagu Declaration significant?