Partition of Bengal 1905 | Swadeshi and Boycott movement | Full history @ParchamClasses​

Summary

This video script delves into the historical significance of the Partition of Bengal in 1905, orchestrated by Lord Curzon, and its profound impact on Indian nationalism. It discusses the subsequent Swadeshi Movement, led by figures like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai, which advocated for boycotting foreign goods and promoting national education. The script also touches on the ideological rift within the Indian National Congress, leading to the famous 'Surat Split' of 1907, and the formation of the Muslim League in 1906. The narrative is enriched with Gandhi's influence and the role of various regional leaders in shaping India's struggle for independence.

Takeaways

• 📜 The script discusses the historical significance of the Partition of Bengal in 1905, orchestrated by Lord Curzon, and its impact on nationalism in India.
• 🚩 The Partition led to the rise of the Swadeshi Movement and Boycott Movement as a form of protest against the British policy, aiming to promote self-reliance and Indian industries.
• 🔥 The Swadeshi Movement was initiated on August 7, 1905, in Kolkata Town Hall, marking a significant phase in India's struggle for independence.
• 👥 Key leaders of the Swadeshi Movement included Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Ajit Singh, who led the movement in different regions of India.
• 📚 The movement also emphasized the promotion of national education and self-government, with the establishment of institutions like the Bengal National College.
• 📢 The script mentions the role of the Indian National Congress in adopting resolutions supporting the Swadeshi Movement during its sessions in Benaras (1905) and Calcutta (1906).
• 💡 The Surat Split of 1907 in the Indian National Congress is highlighted, which divided the party into two factions: the Moderates and the Extremists.
• 🌏 The reunification of Bengal is noted, which occurred in 1911, during the Delhi Durbar, ending the partition that was based on language rather than population.
• 📰 The script also touches upon the formation of the Muslim League in 1906, which was a significant development in the political landscape of India.
• 📈 The impact of the movements on various sections of society, including women and industrialists, is acknowledged, showing a broad-based participation in the struggle for independence.
• 📝 The narrative provides a chronological order of events, emphasizing the importance of understanding historical sequences to grasp the evolution of India's freedom struggle.

Q & A

What was the main topic discussed in the video script?

The main topic discussed in the video script is the Partition of Bengal and the Swadeshi Movement, including the significant events and figures associated with these historical incidents in India.

Who was the initiator of the Partition of Bengal in 1905?

The Partition of Bengal in 1905 was initiated by Lord Curzon, who was the Viceroy and Governor-General of India at the time.

What was the primary motive behind the British decision to partition Bengal?

The primary motive behind the British decision to partition Bengal was to suppress the growing nationalism and political awakening in Bengal, as well as to break the unity between Hindus and Muslims.

What significant event marked the beginning of the Swadeshi Movement?

The beginning of the Swadeshi Movement was marked by the announcement of the Partition of Bengal on July 19, 1905, which led to widespread protests and the start of the movement on August 7, 1905.

Which Indian leader is often referred to as the 'Father of Indian Unrest' in the context of the Swadeshi Movement?

Bal Gangadhar Tilak is often referred to as the 'Father of Indian Unrest' due to his role in the Swadeshi Movement and his contributions to the Indian independence movement.

What was the Swadeshi Movement's stance on foreign goods and local industries?

The Swadeshi Movement advocated for boycotting foreign goods and promoting local industries, aiming to strengthen the Indian economy and reduce dependence on British goods.

What was the role of the Indian National Congress in the Swadeshi Movement?

The Indian National Congress played a significant role in the Swadeshi Movement by adopting resolutions supporting the movement, promoting the use of Indian goods, and advocating for national education and self-government.

What was the impact of the Partition of Bengal on the Hindu and Muslim communities?

The Partition of Bengal had a divisive impact on the Hindu and Muslim communities, as it was designed to break the unity between the two communities and to create administrative divisions based on religion and language.

What was the significance of the Surat Split in the Indian independence movement?

The Surat Split in 1907 was significant as it marked a division within the Indian National Congress between the moderate and extremist factions, which had differing views on the methods and goals of the independence movement.

How did the British eventually respond to the Swadeshi Movement and the protests against the Partition of Bengal?

The British eventually responded by partially reversing the Partition of Bengal in 1911, during the Delhi Durbar, by reunifying the province but creating new provinces based on language divisions, such as the separation of Bihar and Orissa from Bengal.

What was the role of women in the Swadeshi Movement?

Women played an active role in the Swadeshi Movement, participating in protests and boycotts, and contributing to the movement's objectives through various forms of social and political activism.