Course Content
Background Information on 1870s European Powers
Before 1900, Europe was dominated by powerful empires such as the British, French, Austro-Hungarian, Russian, and Ottoman Empires. The period was marked by industrialization, imperial expansion, nationalism, and frequent political rivalries that set the stage for major conflicts.
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Causes and Results of the First World War
World War I (1914–1918) was a global conflict triggered by political tensions and alliances among European powers. It caused massive loss of life and led to significant political and territorial changes worldwide.
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League of Nations
The League of Nations was an international organization formed after World War I to maintain peace and prevent future conflicts. It aimed to resolve disputes through dialogue and promote cooperation among nations.
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Interwar Period
The interwar period refers to the years between World War I and World War II (1918–1939). It was marked by political instability, economic difficulties such as the Great Depression, and the rise of totalitarian regimes in countries like Germany and Italy. This period also saw efforts at peace through the League of Nations, but ultimately tensions grew, leading to the outbreak of World War II.
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WWII
World War II (1939–1945) was a global conflict involving major powers divided into the Allies and Axis. It resulted in widespread destruction, the defeat of fascism, and significant geopolitical changes worldwide.
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Cold War Period
The Cold War was a prolonged period of political and military tension between the USA and the Soviet Union after World War II. It was characterized by rivalry, arms race, and competition for global influence without direct large-scale fighting between the two superpowers.
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Decolonisation of India and Kenya
Decolonisation of India and Kenya involved struggles for independence from British colonial rule, achieved through political movements and resistance. India gained independence in 1947, while Kenya achieved it in 1963 after a prolonged fight against colonial oppression.
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Postcolonial Crisis
The postcolonial crisis refers to the challenges African countries faced after gaining independence, including political instability, ethnic conflicts, economic difficulties, and weak governance. These issues often hindered development and nation-building efforts in the newly independent states.
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History Form 4

Main Stages Leading to India’s Independence

  1. Gandhi and Civil Disobedience

    • Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) led India’s independence movement through nonviolent methods.

    • Advocated Satyagraha (civil disobedience) to resist British laws.

    • Major actions included boycotting British goods and Salt March to Dandi.

    • Gandhi’s speech in 1916 and the Amritsar Massacre (1919) intensified nationalism and resistance against British colonial rule.

  2. The Simon Commission (1922)

    • Formed to investigate causes of unrest in India.

    • The Commission recommended granting self-government to Indian provinces.

    • Its formation was met with widespread opposition as it lacked Indian representation.

  3. The Round Table Conferences (1930-1935)

    • Meetings between British officials and Indian leaders to discuss future governance.

    • First Round Table Conference (1930) and the Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931) aimed to ease tensions.

    • Second Round Table Conference (1931) failed over minority representation but gave India a dominion status and led to the Government of India Act.

  4. The Government of India Act (1935)

    • It granted Indian provincial self-government and limited voting rights based on property ownership.

  5. The General Elections (1937)

    • The elections gave the Indian National Congress a significant majority, but tensions with the Muslim League rose, leading to demands for a separate Muslim state.

Key Events and Contributions:

  • Gandhi united diverse Indian communities for nonviolent resistance.

  • The Amritsar Massacre (1919) galvanized national sentiment.

  • The Salt March (1930) symbolized defiance against British laws.

  • Round Table Conferences and Gandhi-Irwin Pact pushed India toward self-rule.

  • The Government of India Act and elections paved the way for eventual independence.

Challenges and Delays:

  • World War II diverted focus from independence.

  • Conflict between Hindus and Muslims delayed unity.

  • The Muslim League’s demand for a separate state (Pakistan) grew stronger after 1937.

India eventually gained independence on 15th August 1947 after years of struggle, negotiations, and political developments.

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