Explanation: The Indian independence movement, particularly the phase of peaceful protests led by Mahatma Gandhi, had a profound impact on global opinion. The movement, characterized by non-violent resistance, civil disobedience, and mass mobilization, resonated with international audiences who were increasingly critical of colonialism and supportive of self-determination.
Gandhi's philosophy of Satyagraha, which emphasized truth and non-violence, captured the imagination of people around the world. The Salt March of 1930, for instance, where Gandhi and thousands of Indians marched to the sea to make their own salt in defiance of British salt laws, was widely covered by international media and garnered significant support from global public opinion. The brutal suppression of the protests, such as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, further alienated Britain in the eyes of the international community.
International support for India's struggle came from various quarters. Many countries, especially those with their own anti-colonial movements, sympathized with India's cause. The United States, for example, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, was critical of British colonial policies and supported India's right to self-determination. The United Nations, although not yet established, had its precursor in the League of Nations, which also expressed concern over British policies in India.
Moreover, the global context of the time, including the aftermath of World War II and the rise of the United States as a superpower, contributed to a shift in international opinion. The U.S. and other Western powers were increasingly uncomfortable with the continuation of colonial rule and the associated human rights abuses.
In summary, the global response to Britain's response to India's peaceful protests was largely supportive of India. The principles of non-violent resistance, the moral stance against colonialism, and the broader context of global anti-colonial sentiment all contributed to this international support, which played a significant role in the eventual achievement of Indian independence.