Question

The Swadeshi and Boycott Movement was a turning point in the history of Indian Nationalism. With reference to the above, describe briefly:
(a) The inculcation of National Spirit
(b) Contribution to Nationalist Movement
(c) Making Indians self-reliant.

Answer 1

Hint: We will discuss the Swadeshi and Boycott movement. It had its roots in the Partition of Bengal . The call of the movement was made to boycott all British goods and be self-reliant. The movements of Swadeshi and Boycott were suggested by Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

Complete answer:
Let us discuss the objectives.The main objective of the Swadeshi movement was to boycott the foreign goods. Heaps of the foreign products were burnt everyday on the roads, with equal participation of men, women and children. ‘Samiti’s were formed to generate political consciousness among the people through lectures, songs, physical and moral training along with training in swadeshi crafts. These methods played an important role in inculcating the national spirit and in turn contributing to the Nationalist Movement.Against one enemy the whole country was united.People from all sections of society took part in the movement.
The movement also emphasised the concept of being self-reliant.It implied re-assertion of national dignity, honour and confidence in social and economic regeneration of the villages. It included social reforms and campaigns against caste oppression, early marriage, dowry system etc. The movement also found expression in the establishment of swadeshi textile mills, soap and match factories, tanneries, banks, insurance companies etc. which were based more on the nationalist patriotism than expanding the business field.

Note: The swadeshi movement continued till nineteen hundred eleven. The movement resulted in three main consequences - reduction of the import of foreign goods, development of indigenous industries, and flourishment of Bengali literature.