Growth of Nationalism in 19th-Century India: Causes and Influences

Explore the major political, economic, social, and international factors that contributed to the growth of nationalism in 19th-century British India.

THEIASHUB
Get an Instant Call Back from Our Expert Mentors Now!
+91

Nationalism in 19th-century British India emerged as both a reflection of and a response to the consolidation of British rule and the spread of Western civilization, marking the growth of nationalism across the subcontinent

Reasons Of Growth Of Nationalism in India

The rise of Indian nationalism in the 19th century was driven by a complex interplay of political, economic, social, and international factors.

Political Reasons

  • Administrative Reforms: British governance introduced Western education and infrastructure, fostering a sense of political consciousness.

  • Impact of Western Political Thought: Ideas of democracy, liberty, and nationalism inspired Indian leaders.

  • Racial Discrimination: Discriminatory policies and attitudes of British officials fueled nationalist sentiments.

  • Political Mobilization: The formation of political organizations like the Indian National Congress provided a platform for political activism.

Economic Reasons

  • Economic Exploitation: Policies like the Drain of Wealth and high taxation impoverished Indians.

  • Deindustrialization: British policies led to the decline of traditional industries, creating economic hardships.

  • Rise of Indian Business Class: Indian entrepreneurs sought to protect and promote indigenous industries.

  • Impact of Land Revenue Policies: Heavy land taxes and exploitative revenue policies burdened farmers and landlords.

  • Economic Nationalism: Movements like Swadeshi promoted self-reliance and boycotting of British goods.

Social and Cultural Reasons

  • Socio-Religious Reform Movements: Leaders like Raja Ram Mohan Roy promoted social reforms and modern education.

  • Impact of Western Education: English education spread ideas of nationalism and modernity.

  • Cultural Pride: Efforts to revive and promote Indian culture instilled a sense of pride and identity.

  • Press and Literature: Nationalist newspapers and literature spread nationalist ideas and mobilized public opinion.

International Influences

  • Global Nationalist Movements: The success of nationalist movements worldwide inspired Indian nationalists.

  • Indian Diaspora: Indians abroad advocated for Indian independence and influenced international opinion.

Reaction to British Policies

  • Partition of Bengal (1905): The divisive policy led to protests and the Swadeshi movement.

  • Lord Lytton's policies: The Vernacular Press Act of 1878, and the Ilbert Bill controversy highlighted British racial superiority.

  • Repressive Acts: Laws like the Rowlatt Act curtailed civil liberties, provoking opposition to British rule.

Leadership and Personalities

  • Charismatic Leaders: Figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Bal Gangadhar Tilak inspired and mobilized people.

  • Role of Moderates and Extremists: Both groups played crucial roles in shaping nationalist strategies and ideologies.



UPSC QEP 2026 Batch 5 - English
UPSC QEP 2026 Batch 5 - English
Buy now View Details
Submit Your Details to Learn More
I agree to give my consent to receive updates through SMS/Email & WhatsApp*.

NEEV GS + CSAT Foundation 2026/27
NEEV GS + CSAT Foundation 2026/27
Buy now View Details



Join theIAShub’s Mains Answer Writing Program

Refine your answer writing skills and elevate your UPSC preparation with personalized support and expert feedback.

Fill out the form to get started with the program or any other enquiries !

I agree to give my consent to receive updates through SMS/Email & WhatsApp*.

Best IAS Coaching In Delhi, UPSC Online & Offline Classes by IAShub

Are you dreaming of becoming an IAS officer? Then, IAShub can be your best guide. It is one of the Best IAS Coaching in Delhi. Many students who want to clear the UPSC exam join IAShub for learning. The institute gives both online and offline classes. Their teachers are experienced and helpful. They easily explain every topic. Students also get notes, tests, and tips to do well in the exam.

UPSC Online Classes by IAShub

IAShub is in Delhi and is trusted by many UPSC students. It offers coaching for every part of the UPSC exam – Prelims, Mains, and Interview. The classes are simple and easy to understand. The teachers are experts and guide students in the right way. IAShub is also known for its helpful notes, test series, and answer-writing practice. IAShub is the best coaching in Delhi and also gives UPSC Online Classes. This helps students from any place in India to learn. The online classes are live and also recorded. So, students can watch them anytime. These classes cover the full UPSC syllabus.

Key Offerings Provided by IAShub

Here are some important services provided by IAShub:

  • UPSC Prelims: IAShub teaches for Prelims with a focus on basics. It also gives daily current affairs and monthly magazines.
  • Classroom Courses: IAShub has classroom learning for students in Delhi. The environment is good and peaceful for study.
  • Live Classes: Students who live far can join live UPSC online classes. These classes are just like real classes.
  • QEP for Mains: The Quality Enrichment Program (QEP) is special for Mains preparation. It helps students write better and faster.
  • Answer Writing: Regular answer writing practice is given. Teachers also check answers and give tips to improve.
  • Free Resource: IAShub gives free notes by toppers and helpful Main Booster material.
  • Test Series: Test series are available for every subject. These help students know their weak points and improve.
  • Interview Guidance Session: IAShub also gives interview practice sessions with experts. These help students feel confident.

UPSC Exam Overview

The UPSC Civil Services Exam has three parts:

  • Prelims: It has two papers: General Studies and CSAT.
  • Mains: It has nine papers, including essays and optional subjects.
  • Interview: It tests the personality and confidence of the student.

This exam is tough, but with the right guidance, it becomes easy to manage. Students must study smart and stay regular.

How IAShub Helps in the UPSC Journey

IAShub supports students from the beginning to the end. It gives the right books, tests, and notes. The classes are easy to follow, and the teachers are always ready to help. Students get personal doubt sessions too. The test series and answer checking help students learn where they need to do better. Also, free study materials save time and money.
IAShub also guides students during the final stage – the interview. Experts take mock interviews and give useful tips. This full support makes IAShub one of the best IAS coaching in Delhi.

Best IAS Coaching In Delhi FAQs

Yes, IAShub offers live and recorded online classes. Students can attend from any part of India.

Classes are available in both English and Hindi, so students can choose the language they are comfortable with.

The classroom centre is located in Delhi. Students can visit and join offline batches there.

IAShub gives interview guidance sessions to help students prepare for the final round of UPSC.