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Questions and Answers
Which movement endorsed by the Congress Party called for supporting locally produced goods?
Which movement endorsed by the Congress Party called for supporting locally produced goods?
Who was one of the Radical leaders advocating for a more militant approach to achieve independence?
Who was one of the Radical leaders advocating for a more militant approach to achieve independence?
Which Congress leader was associated with the Quit India Movement in 1942?
Which Congress leader was associated with the Quit India Movement in 1942?
When did India gain independence from British rule?
When did India gain independence from British rule?
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Which significant splits in the Congress Party led to the creation of Congress (R) and Congress (I)?
Which significant splits in the Congress Party led to the creation of Congress (R) and Congress (I)?
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Which of the following statements accurately describes the Indian National Congress (INC)?
Which of the following statements accurately describes the Indian National Congress (INC)?
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Which of the following individuals played a significant role in the founding of the Indian National Congress?
Which of the following individuals played a significant role in the founding of the Indian National Congress?
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By the early 20th century, the Indian National Congress had divided into two main factions. Which of the following statements accurately describes these factions?
By the early 20th century, the Indian National Congress had divided into two main factions. Which of the following statements accurately describes these factions?
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Which of the following statements best describes the initial approach of the Indian National Congress towards independence?
Which of the following statements best describes the initial approach of the Indian National Congress towards independence?
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Which of the following statements accurately describes the nature of the Indian National Congress in its early years?
Which of the following statements accurately describes the nature of the Indian National Congress in its early years?
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Study Notes
The Indian National Congress: An Unbroken Saga of National Unity and Political Leadership
Introduction
The Indian National Congress (INC), colloquially known as the Congress Party or simply Congress, is a prestigious political entity in India that has left a profound impact on the nation's history, culture, and politics. Established in 1885, the INC brought together the dreams and aspirations of Indians striving for self-determination, equality, and justice, making it the first modern nationalist movement to emerge in the British Empire in Asia and Africa. As a 'big tent' party, the INC's platform lies in the center of Indian politics, offering a unique blend of unity and diversity.
Formative Years
The Indian National Congress was founded by British-born lawyer Allan Octavian Hume, along with a group of influential Indian leaders such as Dadabhai Naoroji, Badruddin Tyabji, and W. C. Bonnerjee. Initially, the congress focused on achieving reforms within the framework of British rule, with a more nuanced approach towards independence. Its early years were characterized by debates, discussions, and dialogues with British authorities to address the grievances of Indians and promote civic participation.
The Emergence of Two Factions
By 1905, the Congress had divided into two main factions – the Moderates and the Extremists or Radicals. The Moderates, led by Gopal Krishna Gokhale, believed in peaceful and constitutional methods to achieve reforms and self-governance. On the other hand, the Radical leaders, such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak, advocated for a more militant approach to achieve independence. This division in ideologies and methods led to a period of introspection and reorganization within the Congress.
The Swadeshi Movement
In the early 20th century, the Congress Party began to endorse the swadeshi movement, which called on Indians to support locally produced goods as a means of boycotting British imports. This was a significant shift in the party's stance, reflecting a growing sense of national pride and a desire for independence.
The Leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and the Quit India Movement
Under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, the Congress Party became a powerful force for Indian independence, sparking movements such as the Quit India Movement in 1942, which demanded that the British leave India. The movement was met with severe repression, and many Congress leaders, including Gandhi, were arrested and imprisoned. However, the movement's determination and resilience ultimately led to India's independence in 1947.
Post-Independence Dominance and Splits
After independence, the Congress Party continued to dominate Indian politics, with leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi shaping the nation's destiny. However, the party also faced internal splits and struggles for power, leading to the formation of various factions and breakaway groups. The most significant splits occurred in 1969 and 1979, which led to the creation of the Congress (R) and Congress (I) respectively. Despite these challenges, the Congress Party remains a significant force in Indian politics, influencing national policies and shaping the country's future.
In conclusion, the Indian National Congress has played a pivotal role in India's history, from its early beginnings as a platform for political discourse to its rise as the principal leader of the Indian independence movement. The party's rich history, marked by periods of unity and division, has shaped India's political landscape and continues to inspire generations of Indians to strive for a better future.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the history, formation, leadership, and movements associated with the Indian National Congress. From its inception to post-independence challenges, this quiz covers key events and figures that have shaped Indian politics.
