International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

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The Role Of The Press In Shaping Public Opinion During The Freedom Struggle

Author(s) Ravi Prakash
Country India
Abstract The role of the press during the freedom struggle was instrumental in shaping public opinion and galvanizing the masses against colonial oppression. As India sought independence from British rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, newspapers, journals, and pamphlets emerged as vital tools for disseminating nationalist ideas and fostering political awareness. The press not only reported on events but also provided a platform for political discourse, allowing voices from diverse communities to contribute to the independence narrative. Great figures such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi, and other leaders utilized the press to articulate their visions for a free India, framing the struggle in terms of justice and self-determination. Newspapers like "The Hindu," "The Times of India," and "The Tribune" played crucial roles in informing the public about the injustices of colonial rule, inspiring a collective consciousness among various strata of society. Editorials, articles, and letters to the editor encouraged civic engagement and mobilized support for protests, strikes, and other forms of resistance. The press faced significant challenges, including censorship and repression from colonial authorities, which often sought to suppress dissenting voices. Despite these obstacles, many journalists and editors risked their safety to publish revolutionary ideas and expose the realities of British exploitation. This resilience illustrated the press's commitment to truth and justice, fostering an environment where public sentiment could coalesce around the freedom movement.
The emergence of vernacular publications further broadened the reach of nationalist sentiments, ensuring that the message of independence resonated across linguistic and cultural divides. These publications played a crucial role in educating the masses and instilling a sense of pride and identity that transcended regional differences. The press was not merely a bystander but a catalyst in the freedom struggle, shaping public opinion and uniting diverse groups against colonial rule. Its influence extended beyond immediate political outcomes, contributing to the formation of a national consciousness that would endure long after independence was achieved. This study highlights the indispensable role of the press in the socio-political landscape of the freedom struggle, illustrating its enduring legacy in contemporary society.
Keywords Press, Public Opinion, Freedom Struggle, Nationalism, Colonial Rule, Journalism, Censorship, Social Justice, Political Discourse, Mass Mobilization, Vernacular Publications.
Field Sociology > Archaeology / History
Published In Volume 6, Issue 6, November-December 2024
Published On 2024-11-09
Cite This The Role Of The Press In Shaping Public Opinion During The Freedom Struggle - Ravi Prakash - IJFMR Volume 6, Issue 6, November-December 2024. DOI 10.36948/ijfmr.2024.v06i06.30313
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2024.v06i06.30313
Short DOI https://doi.org/g8qthz

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