India's Struggle for Independence

Study Notes

Nationalism in India

Rise of Nationalism

Emerged in the late 19th century as a response to British colonial rule
Factors contributing to its rise:
- Economic exploitation by the British
- Social and cultural reform movements
- Influence of Western ideas of liberty, equality, and democracy
- Growing sense of Indian identity and unity

Indian National Congress

Founded in 1885 by A.O. Hume, a British civil servant
Initially, a platform for educated Indians to express their grievances to the British
Evolved into a major force in the Indian independence movement
Early leaders included Dadabhai Naoroji, Feroze Shah Mehta, and Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922)

Launched by Mahatma Gandhi in response to the Rowlatt Act and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre
Aimed to non-violently resist British rule and promote Indian self-rule
Key features:
- Boycott of British goods and institutions
- Promotion of Swadeshi (indigenous industries)
- Civil disobedience and non-cooperation with the government

Salt March (1930)

Led by Mahatma Gandhi from Ahmedabad to Dandi, a coastal town in Gujarat
Protested the British salt tax and monopoly on salt production
24-day march covered 240 miles, drawing international attention and sparking widespread protests

Role of Mahatma Gandhi

Considered the architect of Indian independence
Developed the philosophy of non-violent resistance (Satyagraha)
Led multiple movements, including the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Salt March
Played a key role in uniting Indians across regions, castes, and religions

Other Key Factors and Events

Swadeshi movement: promoted Indian-made goods and self-sufficiency
Home Rule movement: demanded self-government for India
Revolutionary movements: involved armed struggle against the British
Quit India Movement (1942): called for immediate independence and sparked widespread protests

Description

Learn about the rise of nationalism in India, the Indian National Congress, and key movements led by Mahatma Gandhi, including the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Salt March. Discover the factors that contributed to India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule.