Class 10 Social Science - ICSE-HISTORY-CIVICS
History: First Phase of the Indian National Movement (1885-1919)
This chapter covers the formative years of the Indian National Movement from 1885 to 1919, focusing on the Early Nationalists (Moderates) and the Assertive Nationalists (Radicals). Students will learn about the foundation of the Indian National Congress in 1885, the methods and demands of early leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji and Surendranath Banerjee, the causes and impact of the Partition of Bengal (1905), the Surat Split of 1907, and the rise of assertive nationalism led by extremists like Tilak, Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal. It is a high-scoring and critical chapter for the ICSE Board exams.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Indian National Congress (INC)
Founded in December 1885 by A.O. Hume in Bombay, it provided a platform for Indians to voice their political grievances and aspirations under W.C. Bonnerjee's presidency.
Early Nationalists (Moderates)
Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Surendranath Banerjee who believed in constitutional methods, petitions, and prayers to achieve gradual reforms.
Assertive Nationalists (Radicals)
Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal (Lal-Bal-Pal) who demanded immediate Swaraj and adopted aggressive methods like Swadeshi and Boycott.
Partition of Bengal (1905)
Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal on religious and administrative grounds to curb growing nationalistic fervor, sparking widespread protests and the Swadeshi Movement.
Surat Split (1907)
The INC split into two factions—Moderates and Assertive Nationalists—at the Surat session due to ideological differences regarding the scope of the Swadeshi movement.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In ICSE History & Civics, this chapter is part of the Modern Indian History section and typically carries 8 to 12 marks. Questions frequently include structured questions (Part II), picture studies, identification of leaders, comparison between Moderates and Assertive Nationalists, and causes/consequences of the Partition of Bengal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Early Nationalists and Assertive Nationalists?
Early Nationalists believed in loyalty to the British Crown and used constitutional methods like prayers and petitions. Assertive Nationalists lost faith in the British, demanded complete Swaraj, and used methods like Swadeshi, Boycott, and National Education.
Why was Bengal partitioned in 1905?
Officially, the British claimed administrative necessity due to Bengal's large size, but the real motive was Lord Curzon's 'Divide and Rule' policy to weaken the epicenter of Indian nationalism by dividing Hindus and Muslims.
What was the 'Drain of Wealth' theory?
Propounded by Dadabhai Naoroji, this theory explained how Britain was systematically draining India's wealth and resources to England without any adequate economic return.
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