Indian Freedom Struggle (1857–1947)
The Indian National Movement was a multifaceted mass struggle that transitioned from localized resistance to coordinated subcontinental mobilization against British imperial rule. Initiated by the Revolt of 1857 and the subsequent Government of India Act 1858, organized political activism crystalized with the founding of the Indian National Congress in 1885. Early constitutional agitation under Moderates gave way to the Swadeshi Movement (1905) following the Partition of Bengal. The arrival of Mahatma Gandhi transformed the struggle through nationwide non-violent campaigns: the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–22), the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930), and the Quit India Movement (1942). Revolutionary nationalism and Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army intensified anti-colonial pressure, culminating in independence in August 1947.
Key Concepts & Examination Highlights
- The Indian National Congress held its inaugural session in Bombay in December 1885 under the presidency of Womesh Chandra Bonnerjee.
- Mahatma Gandhi launched the Salt Satyagraha from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi on March 12, 1930, covering 240 miles.
- Subhas Chandra Bose revitalized the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj) in Singapore in 1943 with the slogan 'Chalo Delhi'.
- The Mountbatten Plan of June 3, 1947, provided the framework for the partition of British India and the Indian Independence Act 1947.