PAK-STUDIES NOTES-GRADE 9th

Chapter # 3 – Emergence of Pakistan

3.2 Second World War and the Subcontinent

3.2.1. Discuss the Impact of the Second World War (1939-45) on the Subcontinent and its Connection to the Quit India Movement 1942.

Background
The start of World War II began with Germany’s attack on Poland on September 1, 1939, which worried Great Britain and other European countries. Because of this, Great Britain and France declared war on Germany on September 3, 1939. Italy and Japan joined Germany in fighting against the allied forces led by Britain. Later, the USSR and the USA entered the war because of German and Japanese attacks against them. World War II caused an incredible number of deaths and huge economic damage. It also marked the end of colonial rule, the rise of a world with two superpowers, the beginning of the Cold War, and the start of the nuclear arms race.

Impact of World War II on the Indian subcontinent

The impact of World War II on the Indian subcontinent was deep and complex. It changed the political scene, worsened tensions between communities, and played a major role in the eventual division of India. The different reactions of Indian leaders, especially in the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League, showed existing conflicts and set the stage for key changes. The resignation of Congress ministries, caused by disagreements over Britain’s war efforts and India’s political future, was a crucial moment in the fight for independence. Additionally, the war gave the Muslim League a chance to push its political goals, which influenced the independence movement and helped lead to the creation of Pakistan.

1. Political Dynamics

The start of the war led to a rethinking of India’s political scene. Indian leaders, especially in the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League, reacted differently to Britain’s declaration of war against Germany. This difference in reactions eventually led to the resignation of Congress leaders in the provinces, marking an important moment in India’s political path.

• Resignation of Congress Ministries

The resignation of Congress ministries in the provinces not only changed the political scene but also affected communal relations. For many Muslims, especially those in Hindu-majority provinces, the resignation was a relief from what they saw as oppressive Hindu-majority rule.

• Start of Quit India Movement in 1942

After failing to achieve its demands, the Congress started the Quit India Movement in August 1942, calling for the British to leave India. Riots broke out across the country, showing a loss of British control. The British authorities forcefully suppressed the movement, arresting thousands, including Congress leaders. The Muslim League opposed the Quit India Movement, with Jinnah accusing the Congress of using it to pressure the British into keeping their rule over India during a difficult time. In response, Jinnah demanded that the British divide India into two separate states before leaving.

• Shift in Political Calculus/Change in Political Strategy

The wartime developments provided an opportunity for the Muslim League to assert its political agenda more forcefully, paving the way for the eventual creation of Pakistan. The delay in implementing the federal structure and responsible government during the war years was seen as advantageous for Muslim interests, ultimately influencing the trajectory of the independence movement.

• Role of World War II in the Creation of Pakistan

During the war, the Muslim League had a chance to strengthen its position and push for Pakistan’s creation. The delay in making political changes at that time helped change how political decisions were made, allowing the Muslim League to push its agenda more successfully after the war.

Conclusion The outbreak of World War II in 1939 had a profound impact on the political dynamics of the Indian subcontinent. The British Viceroy’s decision to involve India in the war without consulting Indian leaders caused significant upset and uncertainty about India’s future. Although efforts were made to negotiate, the British rulers and Indian leaders, especially those from the Congress, couldn’t reach an agreement due to their major differences. The resignation of Congress leaders from their government positions marked a pivotal moment in Indian politics. This series of events eventually led to the partition of the subcontinent and the creation of Pakistan.