Indian Independence Movement Overview

Indian Independence Movement

• Key Parties and Individuals: The Indian National Congress (INC), advocating for non-violent independence, led by Mohandas Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru; the Muslim League, founded to protect Muslim interests, led by Mohammed Ali Jinnah; and the British Government, represented by the last Viceroy, Louis Mountbatten.

Early Stages and Partition of Bengal

• Partition of Bengal: The British decision to partition Bengal ignited nationalist opposition, prompting protests, boycotts of British goods, and ultimately forcing the British to reconsider policies and grant Indians greater representation. This united nationalists, including some from the Muslim League.

World War I and the Amritsar Massacre

• World War I: Indian support for Britain's war effort led to growing dissatisfaction and internal conflict within the Muslim League. Returning soldiers fueled hopes for greater self-governance. The British proposals for gradual self-government were ultimately deemed insufficient.
• Amritsar Massacre: A British officer ordered troops to fire upon unarmed protesters in Amritsar, shocking Indians and further strengthening Congress's support base.

World War II and Cripps Mission

• World War II: Britain's involvement in the war without consultation strengthened the nationalist movement, with the Japanese entry creating further pressure. This forced Britain to grant concessions to prevent a nationalist uprising; independence was offered in exchange for full support during the war.
• Cripps Mission: The INC rejected the offer and launched a campaign for immediate independence, whereas the Muslim League accepted it, demanding a two-state solution.

Post-War Situation and Methods

• Post-War India: Famine and industrialization marked the post-war period in India. Britain was burdened by war, facing economic issues, and ultimately unable to sustain its control
• Gandhi and Satyagraha: This "soul force" method of non-cooperation, boycotting British goods and institutions, gained widespread support from various segments of Indian society.
• Non-Cooperation Campaign: This led to protests, yet sometimes violence; Gandhi called it off. However, the campaign was instrumental in pushing for greater rights for lower castes.
• Tensions and Second Satyagraha: Hindutwa ideology fueled tensions between Hindus and Muslims, with the Muslim League seeking separate representation for the minority community.
• Salt March (1930): This non-violent campaign, highlighting the British salt monopoly, proved effective, leading to extensive protests.

Round Table Talks and Move to Independence

• Round Table Talks: These talks proved ineffective in bridging differences despite efforts.
• Nationalist Movement and WWII: The war provided opportunity for Indian nationalists.
• Anti-British feelings: These intensified before the handover of power
• British Gov.: Unable to maintain control and desiring a quick settlement.
• Mountbatten: Brought in by the British government to oversee the handover of power.

Partition and Communal Violence

• Differences in Opinion: The INC favoured a single state, while the Muslim league wanted a divided India
• Direct Action Day (1946): Rioting and communal violence erupted, demonstrating the irreconcilable differences
• Partition (1947): The creation of India and Pakistan on August 15, 1947, marked the end of British rule, though accompanied with significant communal violence.

Explore the key parties and pivotal events of the Indian Independence Movement, including the role of the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League. Dive into early stages like the Partition of Bengal and significant events such as World War I and the Amritsar Massacre that shaped the quest for independence.