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### The First World War (1914-1918) ###
The First World War was a global conflict that began in Europe but had far-reaching consequences for India. Although India was not directly involved in the causes of the war, as a British colony, it was automatically drawn into the conflict. Indian soldiers fought with distinction in various theaters of war, including France, Mesopotamia, and East Africa. Over a million Indian troops served overseas, and thousands lost their lives. The war effort led to increased taxation and inflation in India, causing economic hardship for the common people. However, it also stimulated Indian industries as imports from Britain declined. Politically, the war raised hopes for self-government, as British leaders made vague promises of constitutional reforms in return for India's support. The disappointment that followed the war, with the introduction of repressive measures like the Rowlatt Act instead of genuine freedom, fueled the nationalist movement and led to the rise of Gandhi.
### The Second World War (1939-1945) ###
The Second World War had an even more profound impact on India. When the war broke out, the British Viceroy, Lord Linlithgow, declared India a belligerent without consulting Indian political leaders. This led to the resignation of Congress ministries in protest. The war years were marked by political turmoil, including the launch of the Quit India Movement in 1942. Economically, the war caused severe inflation and shortages of essential goods, culminating in the devastating Bengal Famine of 1943, which killed millions. However, the war also accelerated the process of decolonisation. The heavy cost of the war weakened Britain's hold on its empire, and the changing global geopolitical landscape, with the rise of the USA and USSR as superpowers who were generally opposed to colonialism, made Indian independence inevitable.
### Indian Soldiers in the World Wars ###
The contribution of Indian soldiers in both World Wars was immense and often underappreciated. In WWI, Indian troops played a crucial role in stopping the German advance in France and fighting the Ottoman Empire in the Middle East. In WWII, the Indian Army grew to become the largest volunteer army in history, with over 2.5 million men. They fought in North Africa, Italy, and played a decisive role in the Burma campaign, halting the Japanese advance into India. Their bravery and sacrifice earned them numerous Victoria Crosses, the highest military decoration for valor. The experience of seeing the world and fighting alongside other nations also broadened the horizons of many Indian soldiers and contributed to a growing sense of national consciousness.