How did the Jallianwala Bagh massacre influence Indian nationalism?

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre significantly intensified Indian nationalism, leading to a united front against British colonial rule.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which took place on 13th April 1919, was a turning point in India's struggle for independence. The brutal act, where British troops under the command of General Dyer fired upon a peaceful gathering, killing hundreds and injuring thousands, shocked the nation. This event was a stark reminder of the oppressive nature of British colonial rule, leading to a surge in Indian nationalism.

The massacre had a profound impact on two key figures in the Indian independence movement - Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore. Gandhi, who had previously advocated for a more moderate approach, was deeply affected by the massacre. It led him to launch the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920, urging Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and laws. This marked a significant shift in the Indian National Congress's strategy, from cooperation and negotiation to outright resistance, reflecting the heightened sense of nationalism.

Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate and cultural icon, was so moved by the massacre that he renounced his knighthood as a protest against British brutality. His actions and writings following the massacre galvanised public opinion, both in India and internationally, against British rule.

The massacre also led to a significant shift in the attitude of the Indian middle class. Prior to the massacre, many among the Indian middle class had been supportive of British rule, believing it to be a force for modernisation and progress. However, the brutality of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre shattered this illusion. It led to a widespread disillusionment with British rule and a strengthening of nationalist sentiments.

In the aftermath of the massacre, there was a significant increase in the activities of revolutionary groups. These groups, which had previously been on the fringes of the independence movement, gained greater prominence and support. The massacre thus not only intensified Indian nationalism but also diversified the methods and strategies used in the struggle for independence.

In conclusion, the Jallianwala Bagh massacre was a watershed moment in the history of Indian nationalism. It led to a radicalisation of the independence movement, a shift in the attitudes of key figures and the Indian middle class, and an increase in revolutionary activities.