See, something that big and that major as Independence cannot be because of only one reason.
It's based on numerous factors. The British imperialism was under pressure due to many factors.
#1 --- The world wars which had serious ramifications(casulaties, other losses) on UK, and also these two wars gave rise to UN and other organizations with an objective of peace, liberty, fraternity, etc. UK was also a part of those countries that headed these treaties/agreements, etc. So, it wouldnt make any sense if it was imposing imperialism on another country!
#2 --- The population explosion in India that couldnt be checked and British couldnt handle the secular state, the communal sensitivities, the poverty. It is imperative to note that, the land of India was over-used... For example - the Indigo cultivation is said to hamper the fertility of the soil over a period of time, even after relinquishing the cultivation, it renders the land useless for a couple of years . Like this, it is said that the country was losing out of natural resources. The land was already being exploited, and there wasnt much the country could offer after 200 years.
#3 --- Pressure from the Indian freedom fighters ofcourse! There were men like Dadabai Naoroji that started exposing the true motive of the Colonial rule to the world and to the oblivious Indians. There were countless number of riots, agitators, etc.
Patriotism grew in all spheres possible. There was press which exposed the realities of colonialism; there was transportation that helped the Indians from all corners to communicate, exchange views, ambitions, experiences; the Indians were trying to get everywhere they could, they were even adamant on attempting Civil Services exam, and some did pass the exam; they even formed political groups and continued to fight for their rights... slowly slowly. Not only did they oppose the unfair standards set by imperialists, they want SOVEREINGTY, they wanted a Swa-raj, with a constitution of their own. This demand is a very serious one. How could they convince the angry Indians asking for independence?!
It cannot be said it's solely because of the freedom fighters. Like I said, it depended on numerous factors.
Also, when East India Company first landed and established it's 'reign' in India, it was given a carte blanche by the British Queen(later, the Queen and British govt did intervene etc). The governors and people in power established their own 'governmental laws/rules' by pursuing and manipulating the Indian Kings/royalities who were fighting amongst themselves and lacked the sense of administration and leadership themselves. HERE, they did mis-use naive Indians, but as times passed, there was shift of powers from EIC, to the British Queen... which actually changed the entire game once the Indians realised their true colours, and also due to the two World Wars.
There's a lot I can say, but whatever I have said will suffice to make my point clear, I guess :)
Edited by Angel-likeDevil - 13 years ago