Why did the ‘Moderates’ fail to carry conviction with the nation about their proclaimed ideology and political goals by the end of the nineteenth century?

Theme

T14 Early nationalism: Moderates & foreign contributors

What UPSC asks in this theme

Questions assess the Moderates: did they lay the base for the freedom movement, and why did they fail to convince the nation? Foreigners' contribution also appears.

What to cover

• Moderates: petitions, economic critique of British rule, drain theory, building public opinion
• Limitations: narrow social base, faith in British justice
• Foreigners: Annie Besant, Sister Nivedita, A.O. Hume, C.F. Andrews, Madeleine Slade

Writing the answer

• Balance achievements and limitations
• Use names and specific contributions

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 3 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.