Introduction

History of India VII (1857–1947) by Dr. Chandana Goswami and Dr. Padmakshi Kakoti, published by Mahaveer Publications, is a comprehensive textbook designed for undergraduate History Major students as per the FYUGP (NEP) syllabus. This book examines one of the most crucial phases of Indian history—from the Revolt of 1857 to the attainment of Independence in 1947. It provides a detailed study of India’s political, social, economic, and cultural transformations under colonial rule, while also highlighting the long and arduous struggle for freedom.

The book is divided into four major units, each systematically covering key developments and perspectives:

Unit I: India in the 19th Century

• Reform and Revival: Brahmo Samaj, Prarthana Samaj, and the Ramakrishna Mission.

• Socio-religious movements including Aligarh, Wahabi, Deobandi, and Singh Sabha.

• Growth of Indian nationalism, socio-economic background, and the drain of wealth debate.

• Rise of political associations: Bombay Association, Madras Native Association, Indian Association, and Landholders’ Society.

Unit II: Trends of Nationalism

• Emergence of national consciousness and political ideologies.

• Establishment of the Indian National Congress (1885–1905) and the role of Moderates and Extremists.

• Partition of Bengal and the Swadeshi Movement.

• Muslim League, Home Rule Movement, Khilafat Movement, and impact of World War I.

• Rowlatt Act, Jallianwala Bagh, Revolutionary Extremism, and the Government of India Acts (1909, 1919).

Unit III: Nationalism after 1919

• Gandhian era: philosophy, methods of struggle, and women’s participation.

• Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience Movements.

• Act of 1935, role of Congress in princely states, and movements of peasants, workers, and depressed classes.

• Impact of World War II, Quit India Movement, INA, Cripps Mission, and Wavell Plan.

Unit IV: India’s Independence (Till 1947)

• Growth of communalism and the demand for Pakistan.

• Post-war unrest including the Royal Indian Navy mutiny.

• Cabinet Mission Plan, partition negotiations, and Indian Independence Act of 1947.

• Transfer of power, partition violence, refugee crisis, and integration of princely states.

This textbook not only narrates historical events but also analyzes social, cultural, and economic dimensions of colonial India, making it an essential resource for students and scholars alike. With clarity of explanation, balanced perspectives, and adherence to the syllabus, it equips learners to understand both the making of modern India and the legacies of colonial rule.