Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Context: Introduce the Industrial Revolution in England (late 18th century) and its global impact. Thesis Statement: Assert that the Industrial Revolution was a significant factor in the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India, compounded by various ...
Model Answer Introduction The assertion that the First World War was fought primarily for the preservation of balance of power is partially correct, as it encompasses several interconnected factors, including alliances, nationalism, and imperialism. Arguments Supporting the Balance of Power Theory ARead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The assertion that the First World War was fought primarily for the preservation of balance of power is partially correct, as it encompasses several interconnected factors, including alliances, nationalism, and imperialism.
Arguments Supporting the Balance of Power Theory
- Alliances as Strategic Tools: The formation of alliances, such as the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and the Triple Entente (Britain, France, Russia), was aimed at maintaining equilibrium in Europe. For example, Germany sought alliances to counterbalance the growing influence of Russia and France.
- Germany’s Rising Power: Germany’s rapid industrial and military expansion posed a threat to British naval supremacy. This naval arms race heightened tensions, particularly with Britain perceiving Germany’s expansion as a challenge to its global dominance.
- Colonial Rivalries: Competition for colonial territories strained relations among European powers. The Moroccan Crises (1905 and 1911) exemplified this, as conflicts between France and Germany over African colonies escalated tensions.
- Regional Rivalries in the Balkans: The rivalry between Austria-Hungary and Russia in the Balkans became a flashpoint for conflict. The Bosnian Crisis of 1908, where Austria annexed Bosnia, destabilized the region, leading to increased tensions.
- France’s Desire for Revenge: France’s alliances were motivated by a desire to counterbalance Germany’s power, particularly after the loss of Alsace-Lorraine in the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871).
- Preservation of Empires: Britain and other powers entered the war to protect their empires and prevent any single nation, notably Germany, from dominating Europe.
Other Contributing Factors
- Nationalism: Nationalist fervor, particularly in the Balkans, was a driving force behind the war. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand by a Serbian nationalist exemplifies how nationalism triggered the conflict.
- Imperialism: The desire for colonial expansion intensified rivalries, leading to conflicts over territories, such as during the Scramble for Africa.
- Militarism: The aggressive military buildup, exemplified by Germany’s Schlieffen Plan, reflected the influence of militarism on foreign policy.
- Economic Rivalries: Germany’s industrial rise threatened Britain’s economic dominance, further escalating tensions.
- Failure of Diplomacy: Diplomatic efforts failed due to secret treaties and mistrust, such as the Franco-Russian Alliance of 1894, which heightened tensions.
Conclusion
While the preservation of balance of power was a significant factor in the outbreak of the First World War, it was interwoven with nationalism, imperialism, and economic rivalries. The interplay of these elements, along with the failure of diplomacy and the rise of militarism, ultimately drove Europe into a devastating conflict that reshaped the global political landscape.
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Model Answer Introduction The Industrial Revolution in England significantly contributed to the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India, fundamentally altering the economic landscape of the subcontinent. Introduction of Machine-Made Goods The arrival of machine-made textiles from EnglRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Industrial Revolution in England significantly contributed to the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India, fundamentally altering the economic landscape of the subcontinent.
Introduction of Machine-Made Goods
The arrival of machine-made textiles from England drastically reduced production costs, leading to the replacement of traditional Indian handmade goods. By the 1830s, British cotton textiles flooded Indian markets, resulting in the collapse of India’s once-thriving cotton weaving industry. This shift marked a significant setback for local artisans who could not compete with the cheaper, machine-produced alternatives.
Decline in Export of Indian Textiles
India’s textile exports, highly sought after in Europe, plummeted due to the competition from British goods. The collapse of the Bengal Muslin industry, renowned for its fine fabric, exemplifies this decline, as British textiles dominated the market.
Exploitative Trade Policies
British trade policies imposed heavy tariffs on Indian textiles, making it nearly impossible for them to compete globally. Indian cotton textiles faced tariffs as high as 70-80%, while British goods faced no such restrictions, further crippling local industry.
Shift to Raw Material Export
Under British rule, India was transformed into a supplier of raw materials, primarily cotton, for British factories. In the mid-19th century, Indian raw cotton exports increased by over 300%, while local weavers struggled with rising raw material prices.
Technological Disparity
Indian cottage industries, reliant on handlooms, could not compete with advanced British machinery. While British power looms produced textiles rapidly, Indian handlooms remained labor-intensive, rendering local products uncompetitive.
Conclusion
In summary, the Industrial Revolution in England was a primary driver behind the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India, exacerbated by exploitative colonial policies, technological disparities, and changing consumer preferences. As British industries flourished, India’s artisan communities faced devastating socio-economic consequences, leading to widespread impoverishment and the erosion of traditional crafts.
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