Notes on British Views of India and the Rise of Indian Nationalism

Attitudes Towards Indian Culture

• The British had varied opinions about India.
  • Some admired Indian theology and philosophy.
  • Western scholars translated Indian classics, gaining respect for India's ancient wisdom.
  • Western writers and philosophers borrowed ideas from Hindu and Buddhist texts.
• However, most British individuals were not knowledgeable about Indian achievements.
  • They often dismissed Indian culture with contempt.
  • Thomas Macaulay expressed a low opinion of Indian literature, suggesting a single shelf of a good European library was more valuable than the entire native literature of India and Arabia.

Indian Nationalism

• British rule led to the emergence of a Western-educated class of Indians.
  • Figures like Macaulay believed this elite class would strengthen British power.
  • Exposure to European ideas fueled a nationalist movement, with leaders inspired by Western ideals like democracy and equality, aiming to end imperial rule.

Indian National Congress

• In 1885, nationalist leaders established the Indian National Congress, also known as the Congress party.
  • Advocated peaceful protest to achieve their objectives.
  • Demanded greater democracy to empower Indians.
  • Supported Western-style modernization while looking forward to eventual self-rule.

Muslim League

• Initially, Muslims and Hindus cooperated for self-rule.
• Over time, Muslims became wary of Hindu dominance within the Congress party.
  • They feared oppression under a Hindu-run government.
• In 1906, Muslims established the Muslim League to pursue their distinct goals.
  • Eventually, they began advocating for a separate Muslim state.