Early National Movement of India (1885–1915)

The Indian National Movement is generally divided into three major phases — the early phase (1885–1915), the militant nationalist phase (1905–1915), and the Gandhian era (1915–1947). The early movement primarily focused on constitutional reforms, appeals to the British government, and the spread of social and political awareness.

1. Establishment of the Indian National Congress (1885)

On 28 December 1885, the Indian National Congress (INC) was founded through the efforts of A.O. Hume. The first session was held in Bombay (Mumbai) and was presided over by Womesh Chandra Banerjee. The Congress initially aimed at securing greater participation for Indians in the administration and promoting constitutional reforms.

2. Moderate Phase (1885–1905)

This period is known as the Moderate phase. The leaders believed in peaceful methods such as petitions, requests, and constitutional reforms to persuade the British government.

Prominent Leaders

Dadabhai Naoroji
Gopal Krishna Gokhale
Surendranath Banerjee
Pherozeshah Mehta
Badruddin Tyabji

Key Features of the Moderate Phase

Demand for constitutional reforms
Demand for freedom of press and expression
Demand for educational and employment opportunities for Indians
Dadabhai Naoroji’s “Drain Theory” explaining how British policies drained India’s wealth
Indian Councils Act of 1892 granting limited representation to Indians

3. Partition of Bengal & Swadeshi Movement (1905–1911)

On 16 October 1905, Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal into two parts under the policy of “divide and rule.” This triggered the Swadeshi and Boycott movements in protest.

Main Features of the Movement

Boycott of British goods, clothes, and institutions
Promotion of indigenous industries and self-reliance
Rise of economic nationalism among Indians

4. Rise of Extremists & Surat Split (1907)

Differences between Moderates and Extremists intensified, leading to the Congress split at the Surat Session in 1907.

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Prominent Extremist Leaders

Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Bipin Chandra Pal
Lala Lajpat Rai

5. Establishment of the Muslim League (1906)

On 30 December 1906, the Muslim League was formed in Dhaka under the leadership of Aga Khan, Nawab Salimullah, and Mohsin-ul-Mulk. Its main aim was to safeguard the political rights and interests of the Muslim community.

6. Morley-Minto Reforms (1909)

The Indian Councils Act of 1909, also known as the Morley-Minto Reforms, introduced the system of separate electorates for Muslims. This was the first major constitutional step that institutionalized communal politics.

7. Ghadar Movement (1913–1915)

The Ghadar Party was founded in 1913 in the USA and Canada by leaders such as Lala Har Dayal, Kartar Singh Sarabha, and Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna. The movement aimed at launching an armed uprising against British colonial rule.

Characteristics of the Early National Movement

Emphasis on constitutional reforms and peaceful methods
Awareness campaigns on political and social issues
Rise of Swadeshi and economic nationalism
Growing unity, along with divisions due to British policies like Partition of Bengal and separate electorates

Conclusion

The period between 1885 and 1915 laid the foundation for India’s freedom struggle. Nationalism grew rapidly, and a mass awakening began against British rule. With the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi in 1915, the movement entered a new phase, leading to powerful mass movements such as the Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement.

Establishment of the Indian National Congress (1885) & Liberal Phase (1885–1905)

Establishment of the Indian National Congress (1885)

The Indian National Congress (INC) was established on 28 December 1885 due to the efforts of A.O. Hume (Allan Octavian Hume). This organisation was founded to protect the political rights of Indians and ensure their participation in the administration under British rule.

Main Objectives of the Establishment

To establish a dialogue between Indians and the British government.
To create awareness among Indians about their rights and political freedom.
To promote national integration and political consciousness.
To demand constitutional reforms and ensure the participation of Indians in the administration.
To lay the foundation of a national movement by reducing social discrimination based on caste, religion, and language.

Founders and Key Personalities

A.O. Hume – Founder, retired British officer
Dadabhai Naoroji – Early nationalist leader, propounder of the “Drainage Theory”
Surendranath Banerjee – Bengali leader and supporter of nationalist ideology
Pherozeshah Mehta – Prominent Congress leader from Mumbai
Gopal Krishna Gokhale – Advocate of constitutionalism and social reforms

First Session of the Congress (1885)

The first session was held from 28–31 December 1885 in Bombay (Mumbai).
It was presided over by Womesh Chandra Banerjee (W.C. Banerjee).
A total of 72 delegates from across India participated.

Initial Phase (1885–1905) – The Moderate Policy

The early Congress leaders were known as Moderates. They believed in making demands through peaceful and constitutional methods such as petitions and appeals to the British government.

Main Demands of the Moderates

Greater participation of Indians in the administration
Freedom of press and expression
Judicial and economic reforms
Expansion of education

British Government’s Response

Initially, the British government saw Congress as a “Safety Valve.” Lord Dufferin, the then Viceroy, supported the Congress because it seemed harmless. But when Congress started questioning British policies, the government adopted a more hostile attitude.

Significance and Impact of the Congress

Political consciousness increased among Indians after its formation.
It became the first all-India organisation that laid the foundation of the national movement.
It united Indians to organize and fight for their rights.
Later, the Congress led major movements such as the Partition of Bengal (1905) protest and the Swadeshi Movement.

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Conclusion

The establishment of the Indian National Congress marked the beginning of an organised political struggle in India. Initially, it demanded reforms from the British, but after the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi in 1915, the Congress transformed into a mass movement and became the principal force behind India’s freedom struggle.

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Liberal Phase (1885–1905)

A Detailed Study of the Liberal (Moderate) Phase

The early phase of the Indian National Movement (1885–1905) is known as the Moderate Era. During this period, Indian leaders demanded reforms from the British through peaceful and constitutional means. These leaders were collectively known as Moderates.

1. Characteristics of the Liberal Phase

Constitutional and peaceful methods – petitions, appeals, and dialogue with the British government.
Faith in British rule – belief that the British would eventually introduce reforms.
Demand for constitutional reforms – increased participation of Indians in administration.
Development of nationalism – promoting unity above caste, religion, and language.
Emphasis on social reforms – strengthening education, press freedom, and economic justice.

2. Prominent Liberal Leaders

Dadabhai Naoroji – Presented the “Drainage Theory.”
Gopal Krishna Gokhale – Advocated administrative and social reforms.
Surendranath Banerjee – Emphasised press and education.
Firozshah Mehta – Strong supporter of constitutional reforms.
Badruddin Tyabji – Worked for Hindu–Muslim unity.

3. Major Demands and Struggles

(i) Political Reforms

Greater participation of Indians in administration
Appointment of Indians to higher posts
Increase the number of Indians in Legislative Councils

(ii) Economic Reforms

Stop the economic drain from India (Drainage Theory)
Promote Indian industries
Reduce heavy taxes on farmers

(iii) Social Reforms

Expansion of higher education
Freedom of press and expression
Abolition of caste discrimination and communalism

4. Major Events (1885–1905)

(i) Indian Councils Act of 1892

Increased the number of Indians in legislative councils
Allowed Indians to debate the budget for the first time
However, the reforms were still very limited

(ii) Drainage Theory (1901)

In 1901, Dadabhai Naoroji presented the “Drainage of Wealth” theory, stating that British rule continuously extracted India’s wealth, causing economic decline.

(iii) Partition of Bengal (1905) & Swadeshi Movement

Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal on 16 October 1905.
The Swadeshi Movement began in protest.
Differences between Moderates and Extremists widened.

5. Limitations of the Liberal Phase

Excessive faith in the British government
Lack of organisational strength
Limited connection with the masses
Slow strategy relying only on petitions and appeals
Neglect by the British government

6. Conclusion

The Liberal Phase (1885–1905) was an essential stage in the Indian National Movement. It promoted political awareness and nurtured nationalism among Indians. However, due to limited results and growing dissatisfaction, the rise of Extremists after 1905 became inevitable. Two ideologies emerged within Congress — Moderates who wanted reforms through peaceful means, and Extremists who believed in direct struggle. This phase laid the foundation for future nationalist movements in India.

Partition of Bengal (1905) Swadeshi Movement, Surat Split & Establishment of Muslim League

Partition of Bengal and Swadeshi Movement (1905–1911)

The Partition of Bengal (16 October 1905) and the Swadeshi Movement (1905–1911) were important milestones in the Indian freedom struggle. The Swadeshi Movement began across the country in protest against the Bengal partition and inspired Indians to become self-reliant and resist British rule.

1. Partition of Bengal (16 October 1905)

(i) Reasons for the Bengal Partition

Bengal was the largest and most important administrative province of British India.
The British government claimed the division was for administrative convenience.
However, the real objective was to implement the policy of “divide and rule.”
The national movement was strong in Bengal, and the British wanted to weaken it.
Lord Curzon, Viceroy of India (1899–1905), announced the partition.

(ii) Partition Plan

West Bengal – Bengali Hindu majority; Bihar and Orissa were also included.
East Bengal and Assam – Muslim majority region.
The British aimed to break Hindu-Muslim unity and weaken the Indian National Movement.

2. Opposition to the Bengal Partition

(i) Reaction of Indians

The partition was called an “attack on national unity.”
Strikes, meetings, and mass protests were organised across India.
People observed 16 October 1905 as a Day of Mourning.
Rabindranath Tagore organised the event “Rakhi Bandhan” to symbolise Hindu-Muslim unity.
A nationwide movement against British rule began.

3. Swadeshi Movement (1905–1911)

(i) Beginning of the Swadeshi Movement

Started as a response to the Partition of Bengal.
Swadeshi means “self-made” — use of indigenous goods and boycott of foreign products.
Its objective was to weaken the British economically and strengthen Indian industries.

(ii) Major Activities of the Swadeshi Movement

Boycott of foreign goods — British cloth, salt, sugar, and other items.
Promotion of indigenous goods — adoption of khadi and use of spinning wheels.
National Education — establishment of Indian educational institutions.
National Banks — establishment of Swadeshi banks such as “Bharatiya Janata Bank.”
Active participation from students, women, farmers, and traders.

(iii) Prominent Leaders of the Swadeshi Movement

Bal Gangadhar Tilak – gave the slogan “Swaraj is my birthright.”
Lala Lajpat Rai – strengthened the movement in Punjab.
Bipin Chandra Pal – led the movement in Bengal.
Aurobindo Ghosh – promoted revolutionary ideas.
Rabindranath Tagore – led the cultural movement against the partition.

4. Reaction of the British Government

Use of repressive laws and police force.
Support to the Partition and encouragement to the Muslim League.
The Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) introduced separate electorates, deepening the Hindu-Muslim divide.
Newspapers were censored and leaders were imprisoned.

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5. Revocation of the Bengal Partition (1911)

Due to widespread protests, the British government cancelled the partition in 1911.
Lord Hardinge announced the reunification of Bengal.
The capital of India was shifted from Calcutta to Delhi.

6. Importance and Impact of the Swadeshi Movement

(i) Positive Impact

Strengthened the national movement.
Boosted Swadeshi industries and Indian textile production.
Increased political consciousness among Indians.
Promoted self-reliance and self-respect.

Limitations

The movement was largely confined to urban areas.
British repression weakened the movement.
Differences between Moderates and Extremists led to the Surat Split (1907).

7. Conclusion

The Partition of Bengal and the Swadeshi Movement played a significant role in uniting Indians and promoting the spirit of self-reliance. Despite repression and internal divisions, the movement laid the foundation for future mass movements such as the Khilafat and Non-Cooperation Movements.

Extremist Group and Surat Split (1907)

A Detailed Study of the Extremist Group and the Surat Division

1. Rise of Extremists

(i) Leaders and Ideology

Bal Gangadhar Tilak – “Swaraj is my birthright and I will have it.”
Lala Lajpat Rai – led movements in Punjab.
Bipin Chandra Pal – intensified the Swadeshi movement in Bengal.
Aurobindo Ghosh – revolutionary thinker.

(ii) Main Ideas of the Extremists

Demand for complete independence.
Support for direct action and militant agitation.
Strengthening the Swadeshi movement and boycott.
Promoting revolutionary ideas among youth.
Direct resistance against British oppression.

2. Moderates’ Views

(i) Moderate Party Leaders

Gopal Krishna Gokhale – supporter of constitutional reforms.
Dadabhai Naoroji – criticised economic exploitation.
Surendranath Banerjee – believed in negotiation.
Firozshah Mehta – demanded reforms through petitions.

(ii) Views of Moderates

Belief in peaceful constitutional reforms.
Demanding rights through petitions.
Opposition to violence or confrontation.
Promotion of education and press freedom.

3. Surat Split (1907)

(i) Causes of the Split

Ideological differences between Moderates and Extremists.
Differences on boycott and Swadeshi Movement.
Leadership dispute — Moderates supported Rash Behari Ghosh, while Extremists wanted Tilak.
British tactics to divide Congress.

(ii) Events at the Surat Session

The session was held at Surat (Gujarat) in 1907.
Heated arguments between the two groups.
Extremists demanded a tougher stand against British rule.
The Moderates opposed this approach.
The Extremist leaders were expelled, leading to a split.

4. Effects of the Surat Split

(i) Impact on Congress

The Congress became weak and ineffective.
The British benefited from the internal division.
Moderates collaborated with the British for reforms.
Extremists moved toward revolutionary activities.

(ii) British Response

Support for Moderates.
Suppression of Extremists.
Tilak was arrested in 1908 and sent to Burma.

(iii) Growth of Revolutionary Movements

Formation of organisations like Anushilan Samiti and Yugantar Dal.
Increased revolutionary activity in Punjab and Maharashtra.

5. Events After the Surat Split

Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) – introduced separate electorates.
Cancellation of Bengal Partition (1911) – British withdrew the decision.
Reunion of Congress (1916) – through the Lucknow Pact; Congress and Muslim League united.

6. Conclusion

The Surat Split (1907) was a turning point in the Indian national movement. Although it weakened Congress temporarily, it strengthened the revolutionary movement. The reunification in 1916 gave new direction to the freedom struggle.

Establishment of the Muslim League (1906)

A Detailed Study

1. Background of the Establishment

The All India Muslim League was established in 1906 with the support of the British government and some Muslim leaders. Its main aim was to protect the political, social, and religious interests of Muslims.

(i) Reasons for Establishment

British “divide and rule” policy.
Effect of the Bengal Partition (1905).
Dissatisfaction with Congress.
Encouragement from the British government.
Fear among Muslims regarding political insecurity.

2. Establishment of the Muslim League

(i) When and Where?

Established on 30 December 1906 in Dhaka (now Bangladesh).
The meeting was held at Bagh-e-Palace.

(ii) Founding Leaders

Aga Khan III – First President.
Nawab Salimullah of Dhaka.
Viqar-ul-Mulk.
Nawab Mohsin-ul-Mulk.
Syed Ameer Ali.

3. Objectives of the Muslim League

Maintain loyalty to the British government.
Protect political, social, and religious rights of Muslims.
Promote good relations between Muslims and the British.
Demand separate political representation.
Spread modern education and political awareness among Muslims.

4. Early Activities

(i) Morley-Minto Reforms (1909)

Introduced separate electorates for Muslims.
Weakened Hindu-Muslim unity.

(ii) Relation with Congress

Initially, both organisations were not conflicting.
In 1916, under the Lucknow Pact, both united to demand reforms.

5. Muslim League and Indian Independence

(i) Change of Policy (1913)

Muhammad Ali Jinnah joined the League.
The League became active in Indian politics.

(ii) Demand for Separate Nation (1930)

Allama Iqbal proposed the idea of Pakistan.

(iii) Pakistan Resolution (1940)

23 March 1940 – Demand for Pakistan was formally adopted.

6. Effects of the Establishment of the Muslim League

(i) Positive Impact

Provided political platform for Muslims.
Increased political awareness.
Encouraged modern education.

(ii) Negative Impact

Weakened Hindu-Muslim unity.
Conflict with Congress increased.
Separate electorates promoted communal division.
Ultimately contributed to India's partition.

7. Conclusion

The establishment of the Muslim League in 1906 was a significant turning point in Indian politics. Initially loyal to the British, the League later became a powerful political force advocating for a separate Muslim nation, ultimately leading to the creation of Pakistan in 1947.

Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) & Ghadar Movement (1913–1915)

Morley-Minto Reforms (1909)

A Detailed Study

1. Introduction

The Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909 were an important constitutional step introduced by the British government. These reforms are also known as the Indian Councils Act, 1909.

Main Objectives

To increase Indian participation in government administration.
To weaken Hindu-Muslim unity by introducing separate representation for Muslims.
To strengthen British political control in India.

Why Are They Called “Morley-Minto Reforms”?

Lord Minto – Viceroy of India (1905–1910).
John Morley – Secretary of State for India in Britain.

2. Major Provisions of the Morley-Minto Reforms

(i) Expansion of Legislative Councils

The number of members in the Central Legislature increased from 16 to 60.
Provincial Legislative Councils were also expanded.

(ii) Introduction of Separate Electorates

Muslims were given the right to elect their own representatives.
They could vote only for Muslim candidates.
This system damaged Hindu-Muslim unity and promoted communal politics.

(iii) Limited Powers to Indians in Councils

Indians could discuss government budgets and policies.
However, they had no real decision-making power.
The government was not bound to answer their questions.

(iv) Inclusion of Indians in the Executive Council

For the first time, an Indian was included in the British Executive Council.
Satyendra Prasanna Sinha became the Advocate General of India.
This was symbolic, with no real authority given to Indians.

(v) No Reforms for Civil Liberties

No protection was given for freedom of press or expression.
The government continued to suppress nationalist activities.

3. Effects of the Morley-Minto Reforms

(i) Positive Impact

Indians entered legislative councils for the first time.
An Indian was included in the Executive Council.
Indians could debate government policies.

(ii) Negative Impact

Separate electorates broke Hindu-Muslim unity.
The British successfully strengthened the policy of “Divide and Rule.”
No real powers were given to Indians.

4. Reaction of Indian Leaders

(i) Reaction of the Congress

Congress called the reforms “disappointing” and “inadequate.”
Extremist leaders like Tilak rejected the reforms.
Moderates accepted them partially but were still dissatisfied.

(ii) Reaction of the Muslim League

The Muslim League welcomed the reforms.
Separate electorates strengthened its political position.
The League’s relations with the British became stronger.

5. Conclusion

The Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) were a major example of the British “Divide and Rule” policy. Though they offered limited political opportunities, the key outcome was the creation of separate electorates, which seriously damaged Hindu-Muslim unity and paved the way for the partition of India in 1947.

6. Main Points (in Brief)

Implemented in 1909.
Increased Indian representation in councils.
Introduced separate electorates for Muslims.
Indians included in the Executive Council.
Indian leaders criticised the reforms as divisive.

Ghadar Movement (1913–1915)

A Detailed Study

The Ghadar Movement was a revolutionary movement led by Indian immigrants abroad, especially in the USA and Canada. It aimed to organise an armed revolt against British rule in India.

1. Background of the Ghadar Movement

(i) Condition of Indian Immigrants

In the 19th and 20th centuries, thousands of Indians migrated to Canada, the USA, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
They faced racial discrimination and were denied civil rights.
Indians faced segregation in Canada and America.

(ii) Political Situation in India

The Partition of Bengal (1905) intensified revolutionary activities.
The Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) deepened communal divide.
Leaders like Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai faced British repression.

2. Establishment of the Ghadar Party (1913)

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(i) When and Where?

Founded on 15 July 1913 in San Francisco, USA.
Formed by Indian immigrants to organise an armed revolution.
Gurdwara Yugantar Ashram became the main headquarters.

(ii) Founders and Prominent Leaders

Lala Hardayal – chief founder and ideologue.
Sant Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna – first president.
Bhagat Singh Thind – prominent leader in the USA.
Kanshi Ram – military advisor.
Kartar Singh Sarabha – young revolutionary leader.

(iii) Objectives of the Ghadar Party

To free India from British rule.
To unite Indian immigrants for revolution.
To send weapons to India for rebellion.
To inspire Indian soldiers to revolt against the British army.

3. Major Activities of the Ghadar Movement (1913–1915)

(i) Publication of “Gadar” Newspaper

The Ghadar Party published a newspaper named Gadar.
It was printed in Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, and other languages.
The paper exposed British atrocities and inspired revolution.

(ii) World War I and Plans for Rebellion

World War I began in 1914.
The British were busy in the war, encouraging Ghadar leaders to plan revolt.
Around 8,000 Indians returned from abroad to join the movement.
Attacks were planned in Punjab, Bengal, and North India.

(iii) The Failed Revolt of February 1915

Leaders like Kartar Singh Sarabha and Rash Behari Bose planned a revolt for 21 February 1915.
The plan involved Indian soldiers of the British Army.
British intelligence discovered the plan and crushed the revolt.

4. Reasons for Failure

(i) Strong British Intelligence

The British already had information about the revolt.
Many leaders were arrested before action.

(ii) Failure to Mobilise Indian Soldiers

The movement failed to gain widespread support in the army.

(iii) Lack of Resources

Insufficient weapons and funds for a successful revolt.

(iv) Weak Leadership & Internal Differences

Lala Hardayal was arrested in the USA in 1914.
Lack of an organised and coordinated plan.

5. Impact and Importance of the Ghadar Movement

(i) Impact on Indian Freedom Struggle

Inspired Indian revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh and Chandrashekhar Azad.
Rash Behari Bose later assisted the formation of the Azad Hind Fauj.

(ii) British Repression

The British conducted the Lahore Conspiracy Case (1915).
Kartar Singh Sarabha and several others were executed.
Press restrictions and imprisonment increased.

(iii) Rise of Nationalism Among Overseas Indians

Created strong nationalist consciousness among NRIs.
Support for the Indian independence struggle grew in the West.

6. Conclusion

The Ghadar Movement was an important but unsuccessful attempt to overthrow British rule through an armed uprising. Although it failed, it inspired widespread revolutionary spirit and showed that Indians abroad were ready to sacrifice for their homeland.

7. Main Points (in Brief)

Founded in 1913 in San Francisco.
Led by Hardayal, Sarabha, and Sohan Singh Bhakna.
Published the revolutionary “Gadar” newspaper.
Planned a mutiny in 1915, which failed.
Inspired future revolutionary movements.

Conclusion

The Indian freedom struggle passed through various phases, each marked by different ideologies, movements, and leaders. From constitutional reforms and moderate methods to mass movements, revolutionary activities, Swadeshi, boycotts, and armed uprisings, every effort contributed to shaping the national awakening in India.

Movements such as the Swadeshi Movement, the Partition of Bengal protests, the Ghadar Movement, the emergence of the Muslim League, the Morley-Minto Reforms, and the ideological split within the Congress all played a crucial role in strengthening political consciousness among Indians. These developments exposed the true nature of British rule and united people from different communities towards a common goal — freedom.

Ultimately, these early struggles laid the foundation for larger national movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement. The Indian independence movement was not just a political battle; it was a collective awakening that instilled self-respect, unity, courage, and the spirit of nationalism among the people of India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What was the main purpose of the early Indian national movement?

The primary purpose of the early Indian national movement was to demand constitutional reforms, create political awareness, and secure greater participation for Indians in the British administration through peaceful and constitutional methods.

2. Why was Bengal partitioned in 1905?

Bengal was officially partitioned for administrative convenience, but the real motive was to implement the “divide and rule” policy by creating tension between Hindus and Muslims and weakening the rising national movement in Bengal.

3. What was the objective of the Swadeshi Movement?

The objective of the Swadeshi Movement was to promote indigenous (Indian-made) goods, boycott foreign products, strengthen self-reliance, and unite Indians in protest against the Partition of Bengal.

4. What were the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909?

The Morley-Minto Reforms introduced expanded legislative councils and, most importantly, the system of separate electorates for Muslims. These reforms aimed to weaken Hindu-Muslim unity and strengthen British control in India.

5. Who were the main leaders of the Ghadar Movement?

The main leaders of the Ghadar Movement were Lala Hardayal, Kartar Singh Sarabha, Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna, Bhagat Singh Thind, and Rash Behari Bose. They aimed to launch an armed revolt against British rule.

6. What caused the Surat Split in 1907?

The Surat Split was caused by rising ideological differences between Moderates and Extremists in Congress, mainly regarding the methods of political struggle. The dispute over leadership and approach towards the Swadeshi Movement led to the split.

7. When was the Muslim League established and what was its purpose?

The Muslim League was established on 30 December 1906 in Dhaka. Its purpose was to protect the political and social interests of Muslims and to secure separate political representation for the Muslim community.

8. How did early nationalist movements contribute to India's independence?

Early nationalist movements helped spread political awareness, challenge British policies, promote unity, and lay the foundation for mass movements. They inspired later major movements like Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, and Quit India.

References

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NCERT History Textbooks – Class 8, 9, 10, and 12.
Bipan Chandra – India’s Struggle for Independence.
Rajiv Ahir (Spectrum) – Modern India.
R.C. Majumdar – History of the Freedom Movement in India.
B.L. Grover – A New Look at Modern Indian History.
National Archives of India – Official historical documents.
Various academic research papers and university publications on Modern Indian History.

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