Rise of Nationalism:
During World War 2, the Indian National Congress (INC) launched the Quit India Movement, demanding complete independence from British rule. The movement gained widespread support across India and put pressure on the British government to consider granting independence.
Decline of British Power:
World War 2 weakened Britain's global power and economy. The war left Britain financially drained, and it was no longer able to maintain its vast empire. As a result, Britain began to consider granting independence to its colonies, including India.
Geopolitical Realities:
The Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union also played a role in India's partition. The United States was concerned about the spread of communism in Asia and wanted to prevent India from becoming a communist state. The Soviet Union, on the other hand, supported India's independence and provided assistance to the INC.
Partition:
In 1947, the British government granted India independence but also decided to partition the country into two independent nations: India and Pakistan. The partition was based on religious lines, with India becoming a predominantly Hindu state and Pakistan becoming a predominantly Muslim state. The partition led to widespread violence and displacement of millions of people.
In summary, the division of India after World War 2 was a result of the rise of nationalism, the decline of British power, and the geopolitical realities of the Cold War.