Impact of World War One in India

Economic Contribution
1. Indian revenues had contributed over £146 million to the Allied war effort (by 1918)
  1. Around half of this was war loans - 1917 = £35.5mil, and in 1918 = £38mil.
2. Revenue demands (in India) rised too; by 16% in 1916-17 and 10% in 1918-19
Indian response to the outbreak of the War
1. Gandhi urged Indians to give their service to show desire of responsibility of the British Empire
  1. Even Tilak declared his loyalty
2. Instant declaration of loyalty
3. Support poured in from Congress and Muslim League and Princely states.
Attitudes to fighting
1. Most Indians were okay with going to war due to their tradition of obligation to whoever was their emperor
2. Few claimed to be fighting for India
  1. Most were fighting for their emperor
Military contribution
1. By 1918, 1.5mil Indians had been recruited.
2. Indians were suffering low morale, some feared their couldn't survive another winter on the western front.
3. India became a crucial source of supply (men and materials) for the Allies
4. 60,000 oversea Indian troops died.
5. They were quite weak - heavy losses by the time they reached the Western front.
6. Allies relied on them; provided half the fighting force at Nevve Chapelle.

Resource summary

	Created by Ellie Courtier-Cobley over 7 years ago