Discuss the importance of the Second World War to the achievement of Indian independence.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the importance of the Second World War in the achievement of Indian independence. The reasons may predate the timeframe but must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to the impact of British defeats on their image; British financial and military weaknesses, which limited their ability to control India; the role of nationalist leaders who were encouraged by the weak British response to the Quit India campaign. Prospects of mutiny in the Indian Army forced Britain to make concessions as evidenced by the Cripps Mission. Post-war support for anti-colonialism led by the US and the UN, encouraged Britain to grant independence. While other relevant factors, for example, the role of individual leaders, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question.

Candidates were required to offer a considered and balanced review of the importance of the Second World War in the achievement of Indian independence. Relatively popular question. Responses tended to lack a clear focus on the Second World War and there was too much narrative/description on the work of Gandhi.