Published on 09 Oct 2025
Post-World War I Global Power Shift: The end of World War I saw the decline of European empires and the rise of the United States and the Soviet Union as influential global powers.
Consequence: Facing growing global anti-colonial sentiments, the British government made concessions and reforms in India, including the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms and the Government of India Act 1919.
Rise of Socialism in Europe: The Russian Revolution of 1917 and the spread of socialist ideologies across Europe inspired anti-colonial movements and workers' rights movements worldwide.
Consequence: The British government, wary of socialist ideas spreading in India, engaged with moderate leaders like the Indian National Congress to prevent the rise of radical socialist factions.
Growth of International Anti-Colonial Sentiments: The interwar period saw a growing international consensus against colonialism, influenced by leaders like Woodrow Wilson and the League of Nations' principles of self-determination.
Consequence: Under pressure to appear progressive, the British government initiated political reforms and negotiated with Indian leaders, resulting in the Round Table Conferences as a step towards addressing colonial grievances.
Impact of World War II: The immense strain on British resources during World War II and the contribution of Indian soldiers to the Allied war effort highlighted the contradictions of colonial rule.
Consequence: To secure Indian support for the war effort, the British government promised post-war independence and sent the Cripps Mission in 1942 to address Indian demands.
Influence of American and Soviet Policies: The post-World War II geopolitical landscape was dominated by the USA and the USSR, both of whom advocated for decolonization to expand their influence.
Consequence: Under pressure from global superpowers and international opinion, the British government expedited plans for Indian independence, culminating in the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946 and eventual partition and independence in 1947.
History & Culture
International Affairs Affected Changes in Government’s Attitude
World War I
Global Power Shift
anti colonial sentiments
Montagu Chelmsford Reforms
Government of India Act 1919
Socialism
Russian Revolution
League of Nation
principles of self determination
Round Table Conference
World War II
Cripps Mission
Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946
partition
General Studies Paper 1
Freedom Struggle
Related Articles