To what extent was the Simon Commission (1928) the most significant factor in the development of Indian nationalism between 1919 and 1935?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that the Simon Commission was the most significant factor in the development of Indian nationalism between 1919 and 1935. The Simon Commission was established to report on the workings of the Indian constitution established by the 1919 Government of India Act. The commission was initially welcomed as it was perceived as the next step to self-governance, but the exclusion of Indians from the commission led to protests in every city that the commission visited. Candidates may argue that this protest against the commission helped to develop Indian nationalism, as it was later acknowledged by the British that Indian opinions would be included in any future discussions. The Simon Commission proposed provincial autonomy and its key outcome was the Government of India Act 1935. Candidates may argue that this both helped and hindered Indian nationalism, as it advocated representative government at provincial level but not nationally. Other relevant factors may be discussed, for example the impact of the First World War, the Amritsar Massacre or the Round Table Conferences. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.