How did indigenous resistance manifest during British rule?

Indigenous resistance during British rule manifested through rebellions, non-cooperation movements, and the formation of political organisations.

The British Empire, at its height, controlled vast territories across the globe, often imposing its rule on indigenous populations. These populations, however, did not always accept British rule passively. Resistance took many forms, from armed rebellions to non-violent protests and the establishment of political organisations aimed at self-governance.

One of the most notable forms of resistance was armed rebellion. In India, for instance, the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny was a significant uprising against British rule, triggered by the introduction of new rifle cartridges rumoured to be greased with cow and pig fat, offensive to both Hindu and Muslim soldiers. The rebellion, although ultimately unsuccessful, marked a turning point in Indian resistance and led to significant changes in British policy.

Non-cooperation movements were another form of resistance. In the early 20th century, Mahatma Gandhi led a series of non-violent protests against British rule in India, including the Salt March in 1930. These movements aimed to disrupt the British economy and demonstrate the Indian population's desire for independence. Gandhi's philosophy of non-violent resistance, or Satyagraha, became a powerful tool in the struggle for Indian independence.

In Africa, indigenous resistance often took the form of political organisation. The formation of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa in 1912 was a significant step towards self-governance. The ANC aimed to bring about political change through peaceful means, although it later adopted a more militant stance in response to the increasing brutality of the apartheid regime.

In the Americas, indigenous resistance was often characterised by a combination of these methods. For example, the Mapuche people in Chile and Argentina resisted British influence through both armed conflict and political organisation. They fought against British encroachment on their lands and formed political alliances to protect their rights.

In conclusion, indigenous resistance to British rule was multifaceted and varied greatly depending on the region and the specific circumstances. However, common threads can be seen in the use of armed rebellion, non-cooperation movements, and political organisation as methods of resistance.