Question

Explain the features of nationalist historiography.

Answer 1

The features of nationalist historiography are as follows:

1. Indian historians: Nationalistic Historiography includes the writings of Indian historians who were trained in the British educational system. 
2. Aim of writing: They aimed at restoring the pride in the ancient glory of India and self-esteem of the Indian readers. 
3. Specific work: The nationalistic historians tried to seek the golden era of Indian history, although at times, they ignored the critical analysis of the historical truth. Nationalistic type of historiography also helped in triggering the Independence movement ofthe Indian people against the British. For e.g. ‘The Indian War of Independence, 1857’ written by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar.
4. Momentum to regional history writing: Moreover, the writing of regional histories gained momentum due to the nationalistic historiography and drew attention of the historians to the geographic conditions & history of south Indian regions. 
5. Work of Vishnushastri Chiplunkar: Vishnushastri Chiplunkar who criticised the prejudiced history of ancient India written by British officers, inspired nationalistic writings in Maharashtra.