Questions and Answers
What was the primary reason behind the partition of Bengal in 1905?
Who was the Viceroy of India when the partition of Bengal took place in 1905?
Which leader played a significant role in leading violent protests against the partition of Bengal?
Which movement followed the Non-cooperation movement in the quest for Indian independence?
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Who initiated the Quit India movement as a call for immediate independence from British rule?
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Overall, which movement marked a turning point where British colonial power faced substantial challenges in India?
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What was the main objective of the Non-Cooperation Movement?
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Which movement started as a protest against Britain's monopoly over salt production?
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Who led the Quit India Movement demanding immediate withdrawal of British forces in 1942?
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Which movement sparked widespread enthusiasm among India's masses through peaceful marches and rallies?
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What major event led to the initiation of the Quit India Movement in 1942?
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What was the unique feature of the Quit India Movement compared to earlier movements?
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Study Notes
Struggle for Freedom in India (1905-1922)
From Swadeshi merchandise to mass civil disobedience, Indian society underwent profound transformations during this pivotal period between 1905 and 1922—a time when the foundational pillars of British rule began crumbling beneath the weight of the quest for independence. This article explores four formidable movements that shaped these tumultuous years: the partition of Bengal, non-cooperation movement, civil disobedience movement, and finally, the Quit India movement.
Partition of Bengal (1905)
In August 1905, Lord Curzon, Viceroy of India, decided to divide the province of Bengal into two separate units—East Bengal with Dhaka as its capital, and West Bengal with Calcutta as its capital. While the move was aimed at improving administrative efficiency, many feared it would ignite ethnic tensions between the Muslim majority East Bengalis and Hindu majority West Bengalis. This fear was quickly realized, and the region erupted into violent protests led by Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's mentor, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Aurobindo Ghosh. These demonstrations served as the catalyst for widespread political awakening throughout India.
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)
The first major national campaign launched by Mahatma Gandhi after his return from South Africa, the non-cooperation movement encouraged Indians to refuse participation in the colonial government's institutions (schools, courts, legislatures), boycott foreign goods, and wear only indigenous clothing (khadi) following the launch of the Swaraj party manifesto. In January 1921, Gandhi declared full support for the abolishment of British imperialism, sparking a wave of enthusiasm among India's masses that eventually resulted in millions participating in peaceful, nationwide marches and rallies, known collectively as the Non-Cooperation Movement.
Civil Disobedience Movement (1930)
In March 1930, Gandhi initiated another nationwide protest against Britain's monopoly over salt production, asserting the rights of Indians to make their own salt and break the colonial tax imposed on it. The Salt Satyagraha (civil disobedience) campaign commenced with thousands of protesters marching towards the sea to pick up unsold salt and ultimately led to more than 80,000 arrests across India. As a result, the Congress leadership was imprisoned once again, leaving Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to lead the struggle. Meanwhile, Gandhi himself remained free and traveled all over India to rally support for the cause.
Quit India Movement (1942)
By 1942, the world was consumed by World War II. Despite successful military victories abroad, the Indian National Congress saw little benefit from their sacrifices and demanded immediate withdrawal of British forces from their land. On August 8th, Gandhi addressed an audience gathered in Bombay (now Mumbai) demanding 'the British quit India.' Hundreds of thousands joined the call, leading to one of the most significant campaigns of Indian history. Unlike previous protests, however, violence had become an increasingly prominent feature of the movement; while revolutionary groups like the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association continued to engage in armed resistance, numerous riots—fuelled by religious and social tension—broke out across urban centers.
Together, these historical events paint a vivid picture of the struggles faced by early twentieth century Indians fighting tooth and nail for their freedom and sovereignty. From small acts of defiance that gradually escalated into large-scale revolts, each movement played a crucial role in shaping the destiny of modern India as we know it today.
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Description
Explore key historical events and movements that defined the struggle for freedom in India between 1905 and 1942, including the Partition of Bengal, Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement. Learn about the significant roles played by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and the impact of these movements on shaping modern India.
