Passive Resistance

Definition

Passive resistance is a nonviolent form of opposition to authority, often used by individuals or groups to express dissent without resorting to physical violence. It typically involves strategies such as civil disobedience, noncooperation, and peaceful protests, aimed at challenging and undermining oppressive systems or colonial rule. This form of resistance relies on moral authority and seeks to garner public sympathy while putting pressure on those in power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Passive resistance became particularly prominent during the decolonization movements in the 20th century, where oppressed populations sought to reclaim their rights without violence.
2. One of the most famous leaders of passive resistance was Mahatma Gandhi, who utilized this strategy in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
3. Passive resistance can take many forms, including boycotts, strikes, and peaceful demonstrations, all aimed at showcasing dissent against colonial authority.
4. This approach often relies on the idea that oppressors may be pressured into change when faced with widespread moral opposition and public awareness.
5. While passive resistance is nonviolent, it can sometimes provoke violent reactions from authorities, leading to intense confrontations between protesters and colonial forces.

Review Questions

• How did passive resistance contribute to the success of decolonization movements in various regions?
  • Passive resistance played a crucial role in decolonization by enabling oppressed groups to challenge colonial powers without resorting to violence. This approach allowed movements to gain moral legitimacy and international support, highlighting the injustices of colonial rule. By employing tactics like civil disobedience and peaceful protests, these movements often attracted attention to their cause and pressured colonial authorities to negotiate or concede.
• Discuss the effectiveness of passive resistance compared to armed struggle in the context of colonial opposition.
  • Passive resistance can be more effective than armed struggle in certain contexts because it often garners broader public support and sympathy for the cause. Unlike armed conflict, which can lead to high casualties and negative perceptions, passive resistance tends to highlight moral issues and human rights violations. This strategy can weaken the resolve of colonial authorities and lead to negotiations or reforms that might not occur through violent means.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of passive resistance on post-colonial societies and their governance structures.
  • The long-term impacts of passive resistance on post-colonial societies are significant, as they often instill values of democracy, civic engagement, and nonviolent conflict resolution in new governance structures. Countries that embraced passive resistance during their independence movements may have a stronger commitment to democratic principles and human rights in their political frameworks. Additionally, these movements can inspire future generations to advocate for social justice through peaceful means, shaping the political landscape for years to come.

Related terms

Civil Disobedience: A nonviolent form of protest where individuals deliberately break laws they consider unjust to demonstrate their opposition to a particular policy or system.

Nonviolent Resistance: A strategy of social change that seeks to achieve goals through symbolic protests, civil disobedience, and other nonviolent actions rather than through physical force.

Decolonization:

The process by which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, often involving various forms of resistance, including passive resistance.