Struggle for Freedom in India (1905-1922) Quiz

Struggle for Freedom in India (1905-1922)

In this era spanning from the early twentieth century until just before independence, Indians fought courageously against British colonial rule. During these pivotal years, several key events shaped the nation's fight for self-determination, including the partition of Bengal, nonviolent movements like the Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience campaigns, the tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre, and ultimately, their call for complete independence through the Quit India Movement.

Partition of Bengal (1905)

Aiming to consolidate imperial control over colonial Bengal, the British government split the region into two separate provinces—East Bengal and Assam, and West Bengal and Bihar. This move was met with strong opposition by Indian leaders such as Aurobindo Ghosh and Bal Gangadhar Tilak because it created ethnic tensions among Hindu and Muslim communities living together under British administration.

Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)

Mahatma Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement, leading millions across the country to refuse participation in any activity connected with the British Raj. They boycotted government schools and courts, refused to pay taxes, and stopped using foreign goods. In addition, volunteers held meetings and rallies where they sang patriotic songs and raised the national flag, demonstrating pride in their culture and heritage.

Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–1934)

Building upon the successes of the Non-Cooperation Movement, Mahatma Gandhi spearheaded the next phase of civil disobedience, encouraging Indians to break laws enacted specifically to curtail their freedoms. Thousands were arrested, many jailed, including Gandhi himself. Most famously, he led the Salt Satyagraha march to Dandi, protesting Britain's monopoly on salt production while urging people to make their own instead of buying imported, taxed varieties. Many Indians took part in peaceful resistance across the country.

Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (April 1919)

One of the most horrific incidents during the struggle for freedom occurred when General Reginald Dyer ordered his troops to fire indiscriminately on gathered civilians at a meeting site named Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, Punjab. Over four hundred innocent men, women, and children lost their lives. This tragedy galvanized Indian public opinion towards increased independence efforts.

Quit India Movement (August 8, 1942 – June 10, 1946)

Growing frustration amongst Indians boiled over after discussions between political parties and the British government failed to reach a mutually agreeable settlement. On August 8th, 1942, Gandhi called for direct action, demanding immediate British withdrawal from India. Millions joined him in defiance, resulting in widespread arrests of activists, including Gandhi, who spent nearly three years imprisoned. Despite temporary setbacks, the movement catalyzed increasing pressure on the British Government, eventually forcing them to concede to independence.