What are the Major Decolonisation Movements in Asia?
Before understanding the decolonisation or independence movements in Asia, we must first understand the meaning of the term. Although independence and decolonisation are often used interchangeably decolonisation is more accurately referred to as the independence of the colonized country from the empire. For example, India was a colony under the British empire.
The process by which colonies became independent of the colonising country is known as decolonization. Decolonization was gradual and quiet in certain British colonies with a significant expatriate population, but violent in others where nationalism fueled native rebellions.
Following World War II, European countries lost the financial and political resources needed to quell far-flung revolts; they also met resistance from the new superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, taking anti-colonial stances.
Korea was liberated in 1945 as a result of Japan's defeat in World War II. In 1946, the United States gave up the Philippines. In 1947 India gained independence from Britain. Palestine and Egypt won their independence from the British in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1970s and 1980s, Britain left Africa it abandoned numerous island protectorates, and in 1997, it left Hong Kong.
In 1954, the French left Vietnam, and by 1962, they had given up their North African territories. In the 1970s, Portugal gave up its African possessions.
The article discusses the major list of independence movements in the 20th century. The article is primarily concerned with the discussion around the independence movements in Asia as a result of the decolonisation.
Political Environment Before Independence Movements in Asia
Since we have understood the basic concept of decolonization, let us look into the political environment before the Independence movements in Asia, which concern the political power and alliances of the colony.
Decolonization took place at the same time as the emerging Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States, as well as the early stages of the United Nations. Decolonization was frequently influenced by superpower competition, and it had a significant impact on how that competition evolved. It also had a profound impact on the pattern of international relations in general.
The emergence of so many new countries, some of which had key locations, others of which had considerable natural resources, and the majority of which were desperately poor, changed the makeup of the United Nations and the political complexity of every corner of the globe.
The industrialising countries of Europe considered the African and Asian continents as reservoirs of raw materials, labour, and land for future colonisation throughout the decades of the empire.
The colonies, on the other hand, were exploited, sometimes ruthlessly, for natural and labour resources, as well as military conscripts. Furthermore, colonial administration imposed arbitrary natural boundaries where none previously existed, dividing ethnic and linguistic groupings and natural characteristics, and setting the groundwork for the formation of several states with no geographic, linguistic, ethnic, or political ties.
During World War II, Japan, which was a major imperial force at the time, drove the European powers out of Asia. Local nationalist organisations in the former Asian colonies advocated for independence rather than restoration to European colonial control after the Japanese surrendered in 1945.
These nationalists had been guerrillas fighting the Japanese after European surrenders in many situations, such as in Indonesia and French Indochina, or were previous members of colonial military establishments. These independence groups frequently sought assistance from the US government.
The Role of the United States in Independence Movements in the 20th Century
While the US-backed independence and self in principle, it also maintained close connections to its European allies, who already had colonial rights on their former colonies. The United States' position was further complicated by the Cold War, as American assistance for decolonization was counterbalanced by American concerns about communist growth and Soviet strategic objectives in Europe. Many NATO partners claimed that their imperial territories endowed countries with financial and military advantages that they would not have had otherwise. Almost all of America's European allies felt that a mixture of raw materials and controlled commerce would unite the colonies to the continent.
The United States did not press the issue, but it actively encourages European imperial nations to consider an early exit from its overseas possessions. In 1946, the Philippines gained independence from the United States.
Nevertheless, as the Cold War rivalry with the Soviet Union dominated US foreign affairs issues in the late 1940s and early 1950s, the Truman and Eisenhower governments became increasingly anxious that Soviet-backed communist regimes might grab control in the new republics. This might tip the global power balance in favour of the Soviet Union and deny U.S. allies access to economic resources.
The US employed international aid, technical support, and even military involvement to persuade emerging independent countries in the Third World to embrace Western-oriented regimes.
Decolonisation Movements in Asia
Let us look into the list of independence movements in the 20th century around Asia, before understanding the factual details of the independence movements in the 20th century let us look into a brief discussion about the movements.
World War II provided possibilities for communists, but most importantly, it signalled the end of colonialism. The Japanese overran the South-East Asian possessions in the early years of the war, drastically undermining European colonial powers when they returned after the war.
The colonial governments were now attempting to regain their holdings following the defeat of the Japanese in 1945. Nationalists who fought for freedom were adamant about not returning to colonial rule. However, neither the United States nor the Soviet Union was willing to allow unreformed imperialism to continue.
Only the British Empire, which was one of the key victors in 1945, escaped relatively unscathed, and it was here, ironically, that the greatest surrender in the postwar decade was extracted.
The war years in India put an end to a brief experiment with limited self-government that had begun in 1937. On the grounds that they had not been consulted about India's declaration of war on Germany, the national Congress refused to engage in the war effort.
The Quit India movement was started by Congress, which resulted in their arrest and imprisonment. By the end of the war, it was evident that the British would not be able to keep India in pre-war conditions due to a growing nationalist movement.
A broad Muslim movement sought for partition, backed by a 1940 League of Nations resolution recognising a separate state for India's Islamic majority. On 14 and 15 August 1947, the Indian National Congress agreed, and two states – Pakistan and India – were awarded independence.
Nationalists and communists posed a threat in Britain's other Asian possessions, inspired by Mao Tse Tung's example in China. The communists were defeated in Malaya after a long counter-insurgency campaign, but the more moderate nationalist groups gained independence in 1957. British control was brutally opposed in Burma, and the country gained independence in 1948.
From the Far East, the French and Dutch encountered similar challenges. Following Japan's defeat and official autonomy in 1949, the Netherlands never recovered the sovereignty of the Dutch Indies. To erase the stigma of colonial control, France attempted to assimilate with the metropolitan power through assimilation or the giving of affiliated status.
Mentioned below is the list of independence movements in the 20th century, the list is focused on movements in Asia.
Decolonisation of Asia
The establishment of the European Economic community compelled European nations to align their foreign policy with their European policies. Simultaneously, the disintegration of former colonies and the rise of Third-World countries on the world scene resulted in a dramatic shift of ties between Europe and its colonies.
Formation of the Third World Countries
As a result of the independence movement, a lot of nations emerged that did not consent to either the Western or Soviet blocs. Such nations shared a number of characteristics, particularly economic stagnation and high population growth, and they were together designated the "Third World" by French economist and political scientist Alfred Sauvy.
In the 1950s, five newly independent Asian countries including India, Pakistan, Ceylon, Burma, and Indonesia took the lead in rallying Third-World countries against colonialism. The first Afro–Asian Conference was convened in Bandung on April 17, 1955, in order to solidify their place on the international stage.
The Suez Crisis of 1956 exemplified these new global power dynamics. In Egypt, President Gamal Abdel Nasser, a proponent of pan-Arabism, announced the nationalisation of the Suez Canal Company on July 26, 1956.
The Suez Crisis put France, the United Kingdom, and Israel's interests in jeopardy, leading to a showdown that culminated in a coordinated military assault by the three nations against the former British colony in October 1956.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have learnt about all the nations that got independence from the colonist rule in the 20th century, we have also seen the uprising of the third world countries and the political environment during the decolonisation movements.
FAQs on Independence Movements
1. What exactly is an independence movement?
An independence movement is a collective effort by people of a country to gain political independence and sovereignty from a colonial or foreign power. These movements often involve a mix of political negotiation, social campaigns, and sometimes armed struggle, all aimed at establishing a self-governing nation. The goal is to end colonial rule and create a new, independent state.
2. What were the main reasons behind the rise of independence movements in the 20th century?
Several factors fuelled independence movements in the 20th century. Key reasons include:
- Economic Exploitation: Colonial powers often drained the resources of the colonies for their own benefit, leading to poverty and resentment.
- Rise of Nationalism: A growing sense of shared identity, culture, and history among the colonised people created a strong desire for self-rule.
- Western Education: Ideas of democracy, liberty, and self-determination, learned from Western education, inspired leaders to demand the same rights for their own countries.
- Impact of World Wars: The two World Wars weakened the major colonial powers like Britain and France, making it harder for them to maintain their empires.
3. What were the key phases of the Indian independence movement?
India's independence movement can be broadly divided into a few key phases. The first was the early phase of moderate nationalism (late 19th century) focused on petitions and prayers. This was followed by the rise of extremist nationalism (early 20th century) demanding more direct action. The final and most significant phase was the Gandhian Era (1915-1947), which was defined by mass movements based on non-violence, such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Quit India Movement.
4. Can you give some examples of major events in India's struggle for freedom?
Some of the most significant events in India's independence struggle include:
- The Revolt of 1857, often called the First War of Independence.
- The formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885.
- The Swadeshi Movement following the Partition of Bengal in 1905.
- The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in 1919.
- The Dandi March or Salt Satyagraha in 1930.
- The Quit India Movement launched in 1942.
5. What was the role of Mahatma Gandhi in India's independence?
Mahatma Gandhi was the most prominent leader of the Indian independence movement. His main contribution was the introduction of Satyagraha, a method of non-violent resistance. He led nationwide campaigns that involved millions of ordinary Indians, transforming the freedom struggle from an elite movement into a mass movement. His strategies of non-cooperation and civil disobedience put immense moral and political pressure on the British government, ultimately leading to India's independence.
6. What is the significance of the period from 1857 to 1947 in Indian history?
The period from 1857 to 1947 is crucial as it marks the entire arc of India's organised struggle for freedom from British rule. It began with the Revolt of 1857, which was a major turning point that ended the rule of the East India Company and brought India directly under the British Crown. The period ended in 1947 with the transfer of power and the creation of an independent India. This 90-year span saw the birth of nationalism, the formation of political parties, and large-scale mass movements that defined modern India.
7. Were all independence movements violent?
No, not all independence movements were violent. The methods used varied greatly. For example, the Indian independence movement, especially under Mahatma Gandhi, is famous for its large-scale use of non-violent civil disobedience. In contrast, other movements, like the Algerian War for Independence against France or the American Revolutionary War against Britain, involved prolonged and intense armed conflict. The strategy often depended on the nature of the colonial power and the philosophy of the movement's leaders.
8. How is an 'independence movement' different from a 'rebellion' or 'civil war'?
While they can overlap, there are key differences. An independence movement specifically aims to achieve sovereignty from a foreign or colonial power. A rebellion is a broader term for an uprising against any established authority, which may or may not be for independence. A civil war is a conflict between organised groups within the same nation-state, often fought over control of the government or for regional autonomy, not necessarily to break away from a foreign ruler. The primary goal of gaining freedom from an external power is what defines an independence movement.
9. Besides India, what are some other major independence movements from world history?
The world has seen many significant independence movements. Some well-known examples include:
- The American Revolution (1775-1783), where thirteen colonies fought for independence from Great Britain.
- The Haitian Revolution (1791-1804), the only successful slave revolt that led to an independent state.
- The Latin American Wars of Independence (early 19th century), which saw countries like Venezuela, Colombia, and Argentina gain freedom from Spanish rule.
- The Anti-Apartheid Movement in South Africa, which fought for freedom from the system of racial segregation and minority rule.
10. Why is studying independence movements important for students today?
Studying independence movements is important because it teaches us about the value of freedom, justice, and human rights. It helps us understand the foundations of many modern nations and the sacrifices made to create them. It also provides lessons in leadership, political strategy, and the power of collective action. By learning about these struggles, we can better appreciate our own democratic rights and understand contemporary political issues around the world.
