Early National Awakening in Karnataka: The Role of Libraries and Economic Issues in Shaping Regional Nationalism

Abstract

The early national awakening in Karnataka, spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was a multidimensional process shaped by educational, economic, and cultural factors. This study examines how grassroots initiatives such as public libraries, literary societies, and cooperative movements fostered political consciousness and regional nationalism. Libraries emerged as pivotal centres for disseminating nationalist literature, promoting literacy, and facilitating critical discussions on colonial policies and social reform. Simultaneously, economic grievances-including agrarian distress, exploitative land revenue systems, indebtedness, and the decline of traditional industries-mobilized local populations toward collective action. By analysing historical records, library networks, economic protests, and cooperative societies, this research highlights the interconnectedness of education, economic awareness, and political activism. The findings demonstrate that Karnataka’s early national awakening was not limited to elite leadership but was a community-driven movement in which literacy, access to information, and economic empowerment played central roles. The study underscores the significance of local institutions and economic consciousness in shaping regional identity and contributing meaningfully to India’s broader struggle for independence.