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Questions and Answers
Who were some of the prominent figures involved in the founding of the Indian National Congress?
Who were some of the prominent figures involved in the founding of the Indian National Congress?
What was the primary objective of the Indian National Congress?
What was the primary objective of the Indian National Congress?
Which of the following leaders was NOT associated with the Indian National Congress?
Which of the following leaders was NOT associated with the Indian National Congress?
What role did the Indian National Congress play in India's history?
What role did the Indian National Congress play in India's history?
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In what year was the Indian National Congress founded?
In what year was the Indian National Congress founded?
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Who aimed to promote reform within the British Raj through the Indian National Congress?
Who aimed to promote reform within the British Raj through the Indian National Congress?
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Who were some of the leaders promoting the principle of swaraj (self-rule) within the Indian National Congress in the late 19th century?
Who were some of the leaders promoting the principle of swaraj (self-rule) within the Indian National Congress in the late 19th century?
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Which revolutionary groups inspired by Marxist Socialism and Leninist Russia emerged within the Indian National Congress?
Which revolutionary groups inspired by Marxist Socialism and Leninist Russia emerged within the Indian National Congress?
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What issue led to the formation of the Central Legislature Party by six Muslim legislators in opposition to the Indian National Congress?
What issue led to the formation of the Central Legislature Party by six Muslim legislators in opposition to the Indian National Congress?
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What was one major way in which the Indian National Congress worked towards creating national unity?
What was one major way in which the Indian National Congress worked towards creating national unity?
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What important role did the Indian National Congress play in India's history leading up to independence from British rule?
What important role did the Indian National Congress play in India's history leading up to independence from British rule?
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Which action led to the departure of Muslim legislators who formed the Central Legislature Party in opposition to the Indian National Congress?
Which action led to the departure of Muslim legislators who formed the Central Legislature Party in opposition to the Indian National Congress?
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Study Notes
Nationalism in India: A Look at the Indian National Congress
Nationalism is a complex concept that encompasses various aspects of identity, including cultural, ethnic, religious, linguistic, territorial, economic, historical, political, legal, military, social, technological, scientific, and artistic elements. In India, nationalism has played a significant role in shaping the country's history, politics, and society since its independence from British colonial rule in 1947. One of the most influential organizations during this period was the Indian National Congress party, which served as a key force behind the movement for India's independence.
The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885 by prominent figures like Allan Octavian Hume, Surendranath Banerjee, Dadabhai Naoroji, Womesh Chunder Bonnerjea, and Dinshaw Edulji Wacha, aimed to promote reform within the British Raj in India and eventually achieve self-governance through gradual constitutional advancement. Over time, it evolved into one of the largest democratic parties in Asia and became instrumental in advocating for Indian independence from the United Kingdom. Some notable members of the Congress included Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Subhas Chandra Bose, and C.Rajagopalachari.
One of the primary objectives of the Indian National Congress was to put pressure on Britain to grant India more autonomy within its administration. By the late 19th century, the organization had adopted the principle of swaraj (self-rule) under the leadership of leaders such as Lala Lajpat Rai and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. After World War I, the activities of the Congress increased significantly due to rising discontent among Indians with British policies.
In addition to promoting political change through peaceful means, some factions within the Indian National Congress supported armed resistance against British rule. For instance, revolutionary groups emerged which were inspired by the ideals of Marxist Socialism and Leninist Russia, such as the Ghadar Party, Hindustani Communist Party and Hindustani Bolshevik Party. These groups used violence to fight for their cause.
Throughout its existence, the Indian National Congress also worked towards creating national unity. In order to ensure the participation of all major communities, different panels representing Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Anglo-Indians, Europeans, etc., joined together in the Congress Committee meetings. However, differences did arise between Hindu-dominated groups within Congress and Muslim representatives over issues of separate electorates and other related problems. The Congress originally took the view that there could be only one nation in India - the Hindus being the majority and thus dominating others. This issue led to the departure of six Muslim legislators who formed the Central Legislature Party in opposition to the Congress.
Overall, the Indian National Congress played a vital role in promoting nationalist sentiment throughout India, leading up to the eventual attainment of independence from British rule in August 1947. The collective work and efforts of individuals associated with the party laid the foundation for modern India's democratic political structure, working towards a united and inclusive national identity for all citizens of the country.
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Description
Explore the history and significance of the Indian National Congress in the context of India's nationalist movement, from its founding in 1885 to its pivotal role in the country's independence from British colonial rule. Learn about key figures, objectives, factions, and impact on shaping modern India.
