Lesson 1.3: Modern India – British Rule, Freedom Movement, Social & Economic Changes

Modern India (1757–1947) was marked by British colonial rule, socio-economic transformations, and the struggle for independence.

British Rule:

• East India Company established control after the Battle of Plassey (1757).

• Key policies: Permanent Settlement, Ryotwari System, Doctrine of Lapse.

• Introduction of railways, telegraphs, modern education, and legal systems.

Freedom Movement:

• Early Resistance: Revolt of 1857 – first major uprising against British rule.

• Moderates vs Extremists: Indian National Congress formed in 1885; leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale (Moderates) and Bal Gangadhar Tilak (Extremists).

• Gandhian Era: Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience, Quit India Movement.

• Other Movements: Swadeshi Movement, Revolt of 1857, tribal uprisings.

Social & Economic Changes:

• Social reforms: Abolition of Sati, Women’s education, Caste reforms (Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Jyotirao Phule).

• Economic impact: Deindustrialization, land revenue exploitation, famines.

• Rise of modern Indian middle class and nationalist sentiment.

Key Points for Revision:

• British policies – Permanent Settlement, Railways, Education

• Freedom Movements – 1857 Revolt, Swadeshi, Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience

• Social Reformers – Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Jyotirao Phule

• Economic & Social changes – Famine, industrial decline, education reforms

Example Question (Prelims Practice):

• “Who founded the Brahmo Samaj?” → Raja Ram Mohan Roy

• “Which movement was started by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920?” → Non-Cooperation Movement