“Religion was an important factor in the development of independence movements.” With reference to two independence movements, each from a different region, to what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that religion was an important factor in the development of independence movements. The two independence movements must be from different regions but they may or may not have existed at the same time. Factors may predate 1800, but they must be clearly linked to an independence movement that developed within the timeframe. A comparative approach may or may not be used. Candidates may refer to the repression of religious groups, the desire for religious freedom and/or a desire to reassert historical religious (and perhaps, therefore, cultural) norms and methods of worship. While other relevant factors, for example race or socio-economic issues, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the importance of religion. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.