History of the Indian National Congress Quiz

History of the Indian National Congress

The Indian National Congress (INC) is a broadly-based political party in India, founded in 1885 as part of the nationalist movement for independence from Great Britain. The INC was the first national movement of a political kind in India, with the initial aim of getting more Indians involved in the governance of the country.

Formation and Early Years

The INC was formed on December 28, 1885, at a meeting in Bombay, presided over by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant, and Dadabhai Naoroji. The idea of an Indian nationalist movement opposed to British rule dated back to the 1850s, but the first session of the INC was held in 1885, marking the formal beginning of the party.

The party's early years were marked by a moderate approach, focusing on reform resolutions and trying to work within the existing political system to achieve change. However, as the 20th century progressed, elements within the party began to endorse a policy of swadeshi (of our own country), which called for the boycott of imported British goods and the promotion of Indian-made goods.

Role in the Indian Movement for Independence

The INC played a crucial role in the Indian movement for independence. The party's activities and the growing mass support it enjoyed helped to change the political landscape of India and eventually led to the country's independence from British rule.

Post-Independence Period

After India gained independence, the INC continued to dominate the Indian political landscape. The first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, was from the party, and it provided several other Prime Ministers in the years that followed, including Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, P V Narasimha Rao, and Manmohan Singh.

Challenges and Split

The INC faced internal challenges as well. In 1969, a faction of the party led by Indira Gandhi broke away and formed a new party called Congress (I) (Indira). This new party, popularly known as Congress (I), attracted enough members of the legislature to become the official opposition, and in 1981, the national election commission declared it the "real" Indian National Congress. In 1996, the "I" designation was dropped, and the party reunited.

Impact on Indian Politics

The Indian National Congress has had a lasting impact on Indian politics, shaping the country's nationalist movement, its independence, and the development of its political landscape. The INC has formed most of India's governments since independence and has been the primary political force in the country.

In conclusion, the Indian National Congress has played a significant role in India's struggle for independence and its subsequent political development. The party's history is marked by a steady progression from moderate reformism to more radical actions, ultimately leading to the establishment of a truly Indian political landscape.