India’s Independence – A Detailed Introduction
Introduction
India’s struggle for independence was a historic journey in which millions of people devoted their lives. India gained freedom from British rule on 15 August 1947. The struggle lasted for nearly 200 years and included revolutionary movements, non-violent protests, and immense sacrifices.
Beginning of British Rule
After winning the Battle of Plassey in 1757, the British East India Company established its rule in India. In 1857, the first major uprising took place, known as the Revolt of 1857. Although it did not succeed, it ignited the flame of the freedom movement.
Major Phases of the Freedom Struggle
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1. Revolt of 1857 (First War of Independence)
This uprising is known as India’s first major struggle for freedom. It awakened the spirit of independence across the country. Although the revolt was suppressed, the British Crown took direct control over India afterward.
2. Indian National Congress (INC) and Early Movements
The Indian National Congress was established in 1885. In its early years, Congress worked moderately and demanded constitutional reforms. Reforms such as the Indian Councils Act (1892) and the Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) were results of these efforts.
In 1905, the Swadeshi Movement began as a protest against the partition of Bengal.
3. Revolutionary Movement (1900–1930)
Several revolutionary groups were formed to fight British rule through armed struggle. Young revolutionaries carried out attacks, bombings, and resistance acts against the colonial administration.
The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre of 1919 intensified the freedom struggle. Groups like the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and Anushilan Samiti emerged during this period.
4. Mahatma Gandhi and the Non-Violent Movement
Mahatma Gandhi introduced the principles of non-violence and Satyagraha into India’s freedom struggle. Under his leadership, major nationwide movements began:
• 1920 – Non-Cooperation Movement
A peaceful protest against British rule involving the boycott of foreign goods, schools, and government institutions.
• 1930 – Civil Disobedience Movement & Dandi March
A protest against the British Salt Law, symbolized through the historic Dandi March.
• 1942 – Quit India Movement
The slogan “Quit India” marked one of the strongest nationwide revolts demanding immediate British withdrawal.
Independence and Partition of India (1947)
After World War II (1939–1945), Britain weakened economically. The Cabinet Mission Plan (1946) failed to create agreement over the transfer of power. Partition became inevitable due to increasing political and communal differences.
On 14 August 1947, Pakistan was formed, and on 15 August 1947, India achieved independence. The first Prime Minister delivered the historic “Tryst with Destiny” speech at the Red Fort.
Independence also brought the tragedy of partition. Millions were displaced, and widespread communal violence occurred across regions.
Conclusion
India’s independence was the result of a long and determined struggle in which countless people sacrificed their lives. It was not just political freedom but the beginning of a new identity and self-reliance. After independence, India adopted a democratic constitution and marched forward on the path of development.
“Salute to the heroes of the freedom struggle who sacrificed everything to give us a free India.”
Beginning of British Rule in India
British rule in India began in the 17th century under the pretext of trade, but gradually it expanded into political and military domination. The British East India Company strengthened its influence by subduing Indian kingdoms, and by 1858, India formally became part of the British Empire.
Beginning of British Rule: A Detailed Study
Arrival of the East India Company (1600–1757)
1. Establishment of the East India Company (1600)
- On 31 December 1600, Queen Elizabeth I granted permission to the East India Company to trade in India.
- The main purpose of the company was to buy and sell spices, cotton textiles, silk, and other commercial goods.
2. First Steps in India (1608–1612)
- In 1608, the first British merchant ship arrived at the Indian coast.
- In 1612, Emperor Jahangir allowed the British to conduct trade in Surat.
- In 1615, Sir Thomas Roe secured special trading rights at the Mughal court.
3. Early Trading Centers
- In 1639, the British built their first fort, Fort St. George, in Madras (Chennai).
- In 1668, Bombay (Mumbai) was acquired from the Portuguese and came under British control.
- In 1690, the British began trading in Kolkata, and by 1696, Fort William was established.
Expansion of British Power (1757–1857)
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1. Battle of Plassey (1757) — Foundation of British Rule
The Battle of Plassey was fought between the British East India Company and the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah. Robert Clive led the British forces and secured victory after bribing key Bengal officials, including Mir Jafar.
Outcome: The British East India Company gained control over Bengal, marking the beginning of political rule in India.
2. Battle of Buxar (1764) — Consolidation of Power
The British army defeated the combined forces of Mir Qasim (Bengal), Shuja-ud-Daula (Awadh), and Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II.
Under the Treaty of Allahabad (1765), the East India Company received the Diwani rights (revenue collection) of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
East India Company’s Complete Control (1765–1857)
1. Establishment of British Administration
- The Regulating Act of 1773 was introduced, and Warren Hastings became the first Governor-General of India.
- In 1793, the Permanent Settlement system was implemented, giving landlords the right to collect revenue.
2. Expansionist Policies
- 1818: Third Anglo-Maratha War — The Marathas were defeated, expanding British control.
- 1849: Second Anglo-Sikh War — Punjab came under British rule.
- Doctrine of Lapse: By 1856, Indian princely states like Jhansi, Satara, and Nagpur were annexed into the British Empire.
Revolt of 1857 — End of Company Rule
In 1857, Indian soldiers and common people revolted against British oppression. Leaders such as Mangal Pandey, Rani Lakshmibai, Bahadur Shah Zafar, Tatya Tope, and Nana Saheb played key roles.
Although the rebellion was suppressed, it ended the rule of the East India Company.
Rule of the British Crown (1858–1947)
- In 1858, under the Government of India Act, Queen Victoria took direct control over India.
- In 1877, Queen Victoria was declared the Empress of India.
- The position of “Governor-General” was transformed into the “Viceroy of India.”
Conclusion
British rule entered India in the guise of trade, but gradually took complete control of the subcontinent. The Battle of Plassey (1757) marked the beginning of British political dominance. After the revolt of 1857, the British Crown established direct rule, which continued until 1947.
This period was extremely challenging for India, yet it ignited the spirit of nationalism and paved the way for the long struggle for independence.
Major Phases of India’s Freedom Struggle
India’s freedom struggle lasted for almost 200 years and evolved through various stages. It included early resistance, revolutionary movements, non-violent protests led by Mahatma Gandhi, and finally, India’s independence in 1947.
🔹 1. Early War of Independence (1757–1857)
1.1 Battle of Plassey (1757) and Battle of Buxar (1764)
Battle of Plassey (1757): The British defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, and established their political power.
Battle of Buxar (1764): This battle gave the East India Company complete control over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
1.2 First War of Independence (1857)
The Revolt of 1857 is also known as the “Sepoy Mutiny” or “India’s First War of Independence.”
Main Leaders: Mangal Pandey, Rani Lakshmibai, Tatya Tope, Nana Saheb, Bahadur Shah Zafar.
The revolt failed militarily, but it strengthened the spirit of independence among Indians.
Result: In 1858, the British government ended the rule of the East India Company and established direct Crown rule.
🔹 2. Beginning of the Organized National Movement (1885–1919)
2.1 Establishment of the Indian National Congress (1885)
The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded in 1885 by A. O. Hume. Initially, its objective was to demand constitutional reforms from the British government.
2.2 Partition of Bengal and Swadeshi Movement (1905–1911)
In 1905, Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal, which caused widespread anger among Indians.
Swadeshi Movement: People boycotted foreign goods and promoted Indian-made products.
Main Leaders: Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal (Lal-Bal-Pal).
2.3 Revolutionary Movement (1907–1930)
Many Indian youths adopted revolutionary methods and took up arms against British rule.
Main revolutionaries: Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, Khudiram Bose, Batukeshwar Dutt, Rajguru, Sukhdev.
1919 – Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: General Dyer opened fire on unarmed people, intensifying the freedom struggle.
🔹 3. Freedom Struggle Under Mahatma Gandhi (1919–1947)
3.1 Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)
After the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, Mahatma Gandhi launched a non-violent protest movement.
People boycotted foreign goods, British schools, and government jobs.
The movement was withdrawn after the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922.
3.2 Civil Disobedience Movement and Dandi March (1930)
After the 1929 Lahore Congress demand for Purna Swaraj, Gandhi initiated the Civil Disobedience Movement.
He led the historic Dandi March to protest against the British Salt Law.
3.3 Quit India Movement (1942)
During World War II, Gandhi gave the famous call, “Do or Die” and demanded “British Quit India.”
Millions of Indians were jailed, yet the movement continued strongly.
🔹 4. Independence and Partition of India (1947)
The Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946 failed to create a consensus on power transfer.
14 August 1947: Pakistan was created.
15 August 1947: India became independent.
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru became the first Prime Minister of independent India.
Conclusion
India’s freedom struggle went through many phases, and countless people sacrificed their lives. It was not just a political battle—it was also a struggle for national awakening and self-reliance. After independence, India adopted a democratic constitution and moved forward on the path of progress.
“Salute to the heroes of the freedom struggle, who sacrificed their lives and gave us a free India!”
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🔹 The Revolt of 1857 (First War of Independence)
Introduction
The Revolt of 1857 was the first major organized attempt to overthrow British rule. It is known as “India’s First War of Independence,” the “Sepoy Rebellion,” or the “Great Revolt of 1857.”
The revolt was triggered by political oppression, economic exploitation, socio-religious interference, and soldier discontent.
Although the revolt was suppressed in 1858, it ignited the spirit of nationalism and laid the foundation for future movements.
Main Reasons for the Revolt of 1857
1. Political Reasons
- The Doctrine of Lapse allowed the British to annex states without a natural heir (Jhansi, Satara, Nagpur, Awadh).
- Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar was declared the last Emperor of Delhi.
2. Social and Religious Reasons
- The British interfered in Indian customs and traditions.
- Laws against practices like Sati and child marriage caused resentment.
- Missionary activities created fear of forced religious conversion.
3. Economic Reasons
- British policies ruined farmers, artisans, and local industries.
- Zamindari system and heavy taxation pushed farmers into debt.
- Traditional Indian industries declined sharply.
4. Soldier Discontent
- Indian soldiers were paid less and treated unequally.
- Greased cartridges (cow and pig fat) hurt the religious sentiments of Hindu and Muslim soldiers.
Beginning of the Revolt and Major Centers
📍 1. Meerut (10 May 1857) – Beginning of the Revolt
On 9 May 1857, 85 Indian soldiers were imprisoned for refusing to use greased cartridges. On 10 May, soldiers revolted, freed the prisoners, and marched toward Delhi.
📍 2. Delhi – Leadership of Bahadur Shah Zafar
On 11 May 1857 the rebels captured Delhi and declared Bahadur Shah Zafar the leader of India. Delhi became the center of the revolt but was recaptured by the British in September 1857.
📍 3. Kanpur – Leadership of Nana Saheb
Nana Saheb led the revolt in Kanpur, and Tatya Tope resisted British forces. Ultimately Kanpur fell, and Tatya Tope was executed in 1859.
📍 4. Jhansi – Struggle of Rani Lakshmibai
Rani Lakshmibai fought valiantly to defend Jhansi. She achieved martyrdom in 1858. Her iconic slogan: “I will not give up my Jhansi!”
📍 5. Bihar – Kunwar Singh’s Rebellion
Kunwar Singh led the revolt in Bihar and fought the British until his last breath.
📍 Lucknow – Begum Hazrat Mahal
Begum Hazrat Mahal revolted in Awadh. She fought bravely but was eventually forced to retreat to Nepal.
Suppression of the Revolt and Reasons for Failure
1. Suppression
By late 1857, Delhi was recaptured. By 1858, major centers like Kanpur, Jhansi, Lucknow, and Bihar were defeated. Bahadur Shah Zafar was exiled to Rangoon; Rani Lakshmibai, Tatya Tope, and many others died fighting.
2. Reasons for Failure
- Lack of unified leadership and organization.
- British military superiority.
- Poor communication between rebel groups.
- Some princely states supported the British.
Results and Effects of the Revolt
1. Direct British Rule (1858)
In 1858, the British Crown took direct control of India. The Governor-General’s position changed to “Viceroy.” Lord Canning became the first Viceroy.
2. Changes in the Army
Recruitment policies changed and efforts were made to weaken Hindu-Muslim unity.
3. Rise of Nationalism
Though the revolt failed, it sparked national consciousness and laid the foundation for the Indian National Movement.
Conclusion
The Revolt of 1857 was not just a rebellion—it was the beginning of the Indian freedom movement. Although unsuccessful, it forced the British to change their policies and paved the way toward India’s independence in 1947.
“The War of 1857 was the first spark that lit the flame of Indian Independence.”
Indian National Congress (INC) and the Early Movement
The Indian National Congress (INC) was the most prominent political organization of India’s freedom struggle. Established on 28 December 1885, it led major political movements against British rule and played a crucial role in achieving India’s independence in 1947.
Introduction to the Indian National Congress (INC)
The INC provided a national platform for Indians, demanded constitutional reforms, promoted democratic values, and acted as a bridge between British authorities and Indian leaders.
Establishment of the Indian National Congress
1. Purpose of Establishment
- To provide a political platform for Indians.
- To demand constitutional reforms from the British Government.
- To promote democratic ideology in India.
- To maintain cordial relations between Indians and the British.
2. How the Indian National Congress Was Established
- A. O. Hume, a retired British officer, played a key role in founding the INC.
- He acted as a mediator between Indian leaders and the British administration.
- The first session of INC was held in Bombay (Mumbai) on 28 December 1885 and was presided over by Vyomesh Chandra Banerjee.
3. Prominent Leaders of the First Congress Session (1885)
- A. O. Hume (Founder)
- Vyomesh Chandra Banerjee (First President)
- Dadabhai Naoroji
- Surendranath Banerjee
- Badruddin Tyabji
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale
- Pherozeshah Mehta
The Early Congress and Its Movements (1885–1905)
1. Early Congress Policy (Moderate Era: 1885–1905)
This period is known as the Moderate Era. The Congress focused on constitutional reforms and dialogue with the British Government.
Main Demands of the Moderates
- Greater opportunities for Indians in government services.
- Expansion of self-government for Indians.
- Reduction of heavy taxes imposed on Indians.
- Appointment of Indians to high administrative and judicial posts.
Key Leaders of the Moderate Era
- Dadabhai Naoroji – Known for his “Drain of Wealth Theory.”
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale – A moderate leader who believed in dialogue with the British.
- Pherozeshah Mehta and Surendranath Banerjee – Advocated for political rights of Indians.
🔹 1905–1919: Congress Split and the Swadeshi Movement
1. Partition of Bengal and the Swadeshi Movement (1905–1911)
- In 1905, Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal.
- The Swadeshi Movement began as a protest against the partition.
- People boycotted foreign goods and promoted Indian-made products.
- The National Education Movement also began during this time.
- Lal-Bal-Pal (Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal) played a major role.
2. Congress Split (1907) – Moderates vs. Extremists
- The Congress split at the Surat Session in 1907.
- Moderates: Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Ferozeshah Mehta, Dadabhai Naoroji.
- Extremists: Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal.
- Extremists believed in stronger, sometimes revolutionary, methods against British rule.
3. Lucknow Pact (1916)
- An agreement between the Congress and the Muslim League.
- Both organizations jointly demanded constitutional reforms from the British Government.
- The pact was led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
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🔹 1919–1947: National Movement Under Mahatma Gandhi
1. Rowlatt Act and Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919)
- Rowlatt Act: Allowed imprisonment without trial.
- 13 April 1919: General Dyer fired upon unarmed Indians at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar.
2. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)
- Started by Mahatma Gandhi as a non-violent mass movement.
- People boycotted foreign clothes, government jobs, and British institutions.
- The movement was withdrawn after the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922.
3. Civil Disobedience Movement (1930) – Dandi March
- Gandhi initiated the Salt Satyagraha (Dandi March) protesting against the British Salt Law.
- Millions of Indians participated by breaking unjust British laws.
4. Quit India Movement (1942)
- Launched on 8 August 1942.
- Gandhi gave the historic call “Quit India.”
- Many Congress leaders were arrested.
- This movement became the final push towards Indian independence.
5. Independence of India (1947)
- India became independent on 15 August 1947.
- Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru became the first Prime Minister of independent India.
Conclusion
The Indian National Congress (INC) led many important movements—from constitutional reforms to mass non-violent struggles. Initially, the Congress followed a moderate, dialogue-based approach, but later, under Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership, it mobilized the entire nation and ultimately achieved independence.
“The Indian National Congress played the most important role in freeing India from colonial rule.”
The Revolutionary Movement (1900–1930)
Revolutionary Movement (1900–1930) refers to the armed struggle carried out by young Indian revolutionaries who used weapons, bombs, and direct attacks to challenge British rule. Their aim was to weaken the colonial administration, inspire Indian masses, and ignite the flame of freedom.
Introduction
Between 1900 and 1930, an important stream emerged in India’s freedom struggle known as the Revolutionary Movement. Revolutionaries believed that independence could be achieved only through armed resistance. Their courage, sacrifices, and determination became an integral part of India’s long fight for freedom.
Main Reasons for the Revolutionary Movement
1. Partition of Bengal (1905) and the Swadeshi Movement
- In 1905, Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal, leading to widespread protests.
- When non-violent protests did not achieve results, several young Indians turned towards revolutionary methods and armed struggle.
2. Repressive Policies of the British Government
- The British enforced strict laws that created widespread anger among Indians.
- Rowlatt Act (1919): Allowed arrests without trial.
- Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919): Inspired youth to choose the revolutionary path.
3. Dissatisfaction with the Soft Attitude of Congress
- Moderate Congress leaders believed in discussion and reform, not armed struggle.
- Young revolutionaries felt that only armed rebellion could bring complete freedom.
Revolutionary Activities (1900–1930)
📍 1. Early Revolutionary Organisations (1900–1910)
Many secret revolutionary groups were formed during this period, which carried out attacks against British officials.
Major Revolutionary Organisations
- Anushilan Samiti (1902, Bengal): Leaders – Prafulla Chaki, Khudiram Bose, Aurobindo Ghosh
- Yugantar Party (1906, Bengal): Leaders – Barindra Kumar Ghosh, Jatin Das
- Revolutionary Activities in Maharashtra: Leaders – Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Chapekar Brothers
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Major Events
- 1908: Khudiram Bose and Prafulla Chaki attempted to assassinate Magistrate Kingsford in Muzaffarpur.
- 1909: Chapekar brothers murdered British officer Rand.
- 1910: Bagha Jatin carried out several revolutionary actions.
📍 2. Ghadar Movement (1913–1915)
- In 1913, the Ghadar Party was established with headquarters in the USA and Canada.
- The movement aimed to organize Indians abroad and overthrow British rule through an armed rebellion.
- Main leaders: Lala Har Dayal, Kartar Singh Sarabha, Ramchandra, Baba Gurdit Singh.
- A planned uprising in India in 1915 was suppressed by the British due to leaked information.
📍 3. Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) and the Kakori Incident (1925)
- In 1924, Chandrashekhar Azad, Ramprasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and Sachindranath Sanyal founded the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) in North India.
- On 9 August 1925, revolutionaries carried out the Kakori Train Robbery to seize government treasury.
- Ramprasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and Roshan Singh were executed in 1927.
📍 4. Bhagat Singh and the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) (1928–1931)
- In 1928, Azad, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, and Batukeshwar Dutt restructured HRA into the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA).
- Bhagat Singh linked the movement with socialist ideology and inspired millions of Indians.
Major Events Under HSRA
- Opposition to Simon Commission (1928): Lala Lajpat Rai died from injuries after a brutal lathi charge.
- To avenge him, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev assassinated British officer Saunders.
- Assembly Bomb Case (1929): Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Assembly to “make the deaf hear.”
- 23 March 1931: Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were executed.
📍 5. Chandrashekhar Azad and His Revolutionary Activities (1930)
- After the execution of Bhagat Singh, Azad continued revolutionary activities.
- On 27 February 1931, he fought bravely and achieved martyrdom in Alfred Park, Allahabad.
Impact of the Revolutionary Movement
1. Strengthened the Freedom Struggle
The sacrifices of revolutionaries increased mass anger against British rule and inspired millions.
2. Congress Adopted More Radical Policies
By the 1930s, Congress became more aggressive in demanding complete independence.
3. Rise of Revolutionary Spirit Among Youth
Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and other revolutionaries became icons for Indian youth.
Conclusion
The period between 1900 and 1930 was a crucial phase of the Indian freedom struggle. Brave revolutionaries with slogans like “Vande Mataram” and “Inquilab Zindabad” challenged British authority and awakened the nation.
“If you want to live shamelessly then slavery is fine, otherwise rebellion is better!”
Mahatma Gandhi and The Non-Violent Movement
Introduction
Mahatma Gandhi was the great leader of India’s freedom struggle who fought British rule through the principles of non-violence and Satyagraha. Under his leadership, three major national movements were launched — the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930), and the Quit India Movement (1942). Gandhi believed that violence could never bring permanent change in society, therefore he adopted the path of peaceful struggle.
Biography of Mahatma Gandhi
- Full Name: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
- Birth: 2 October 1869, Porbandar, Gujarat
- Education: Studied law in England
- 1893–1915: Led the struggle against apartheid in South Africa
- 1915: Returned to India and became a central figure in the freedom struggle
Gandhiji transformed the ideas of non-violence and Satyagraha into powerful political tools and used them to challenge British rule.
Gandhi’s Major Non-Violent Movements
📍 1. Champaran and Kheda Satyagraha (1917–1918)
Champaran Satyagraha (1917)
- In Champaran (Bihar), farmers were forced to cultivate indigo under exploitative conditions.
- They received no compensation from the British government.
- Gandhiji led a Satyagraha movement which secured justice for the farmers.
Kheda Satyagraha (1918)
- Kheda (Gujarat) faced severe famine but the British refused to reduce taxes.
- Gandhiji launched a non-violent Satyagraha.
- Eventually, farmers were granted tax relief.
Result: These movements boosted the confidence of farmers and strengthened the foundation of non-violent resistance in India.
📍 2. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)
Reason
- Rowlatt Act (1919): Allowed imprisonment without trial.
- Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (13 April 1919): General Dyer opened fire on unarmed civilians.
In response, Gandhiji launched the Non-Cooperation Movement as a national protest against British injustice.
Major Activities
- Boycott of government jobs, schools, colleges, and courts.
- Burning of foreign clothes.
- Promotion of Khadi and Swadeshi goods.
Chauri Chaura Incident (1922): Withdrawal of the Movement
- On 5 February 1922, at Chauri Chaura (Uttar Pradesh), protesters set a police station on fire.
- Twenty-two policemen were killed.
- Gandhiji immediately withdrew the movement due to the violent turn of events.
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Result: For the first time, the British felt the power of organized national resistance.
📍 3. Civil Disobedience Movement (1930) – Dandi March
Reason
- The British imposed a tax on salt, affecting even the poorest citizens.
- Gandhi launched the Civil Disobedience Movement to oppose unjust British laws.
Dandi March (12 March – 6 April 1930)
- Gandhiji walked 240 miles from Sabarmati Ashram (Gujarat) to Dandi on the Arabian Sea coast.
- He produced salt from seawater, symbolically breaking British law.
Result:
- The movement spread across the nation.
- Gandhiji was arrested.
- The Gandhi–Irwin Pact (1931) was signed, leading to the release of several leaders.
📍 4. Quit India Movement (1942)
Reason
- During World War II, the British involved India in the war without consulting Indians.
- Gandhiji gave the slogan “Quit India” demanding immediate British withdrawal.
The Quit India Resolution – 9 August 1942
- Gandhiji declared the historic slogan “Do or Die.”
- British authorities arrested Gandhiji and the entire top Congress leadership.
Result:
- Massive nationwide protests took place.
- By 1945, the British government decided to grant independence to India.
Gandhi’s Ideas of Non-Violence and Satyagraha
- Non-Violence: Violence cannot be answered with violence. Truth and justice must be pursued peacefully.
- Satyagraha: Non-violent resistance against unjust laws through the power of truth.
- Swadeshi: Boycott foreign goods and promote Indian products.
- Complete Independence: A self-reliant India where every citizen is free.
- Public Service: Politics must serve people and society.
Impact of Gandhiji’s Movements
- Unified the Indian freedom struggle.
- Brought ordinary citizens into the national movement.
- Forced the British to consider granting independence.
- India finally became independent on 15 August 1947.
Conclusion
The non-violent movements led by Mahatma Gandhi played a decisive role in achieving India’s independence. He showed the world that injustice can be defeated through peaceful means. His ideals remain relevant and continue to inspire humanity.
“Non-violence is the only religion, the only way of life.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Independence and Partition of India (1947)
Introduction
India freed itself from British rule on 15 August 1947, but independence came with a tragic event — Partition. The subcontinent was divided into two nations, India and Pakistan. This division led to massive communal riots, the death of thousands, and the displacement of millions, making it one of the greatest human tragedies in history. The final chapter of the freedom struggle was filled with both hope and pain.
India’s Struggle for Independence and the Final Phase (1940–1947)
📍 1. World War II and India (1939–1945)
- World War II began in 1939, and the British government involved India in the war without consulting Indian leaders.
- In protest, the Congress ministries resigned.
- The British refused to address Indian demands, increasing national resentment.
📍 2. Quit India Movement (1942) – The Decisive Battle
- On 8 August 1942, Mahatma Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement.
- He gave the powerful slogan: “Do or Die.”
- Gandhi, Nehru, Patel, and other leaders were arrested immediately.
- Violence erupted across the country, but the movement severely weakened British control.
Result: The British realized that ruling India any longer was impossible.
📍 3. Muslim League and the Demand for Partition
- The Muslim League, established in 1906, raised the demand for Pakistan in 1940.
- Jinnah argued that Hindus and Muslims were two separate nations — the Two-Nation Theory.
- The British encouraged communal divisions through their “divide and rule” policy.
📍 4. Cabinet Mission Plan (1946) and Interim Government
- In 1946, the British sent the Cabinet Mission with a plan to keep India united.
- However, differences between Congress and the Muslim League increased.
- On 2 September 1946, an interim government was formed under Jawaharlal Nehru.
📍 5. Reasons for Partition and the Mountbatten Plan (1947)
- In 1947, Lord Mountbatten became the last Viceroy of India.
- On 3 June 1947, he presented the Mountbatten Plan, which proposed the partition of India.
- Congress accepted the plan reluctantly, as Jinnah refused any solution without partition.
- 14 August 1947: Pakistan was created.
- 15 August 1947: India became independent.
Consequences of Independence and Partition
📍 1. Creation of India and Pakistan
- Two new nations, India and Pakistan, were formed.
- Pakistan consisted of two regions: West Pakistan and East Pakistan (later Bangladesh, 1971).
📍 2. Communal Riots and Genocide
- Partition triggered widespread violence between Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh communities.
- More than 1.5 crore (15 million) people were displaced.
- Thousands were killed in riots across Delhi, Lahore, Amritsar, Noakhali, and surrounding regions.
📍 3. Assassination of Mahatma Gandhi (30 January 1948)
- Gandhiji was deeply saddened by the communal violence that accompanied Partition.
- He worked tirelessly to restore peace, non-violence, and communal harmony.
- On 30 January 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse in New Delhi.
Conclusion
India’s struggle for freedom was a long, challenging, and inspiring journey in which millions of people dedicated their lives for the nation. It was not only a political movement but also a battle for national awakening, self-respect, and self-reliance.
From the First War of Independence in 1857 to the historic day of 15 August 1947, India went through countless sacrifices and movements. The bravery of revolutionaries, the power of non-violent struggles led by Mahatma Gandhi, and the unity of the people ultimately compelled the British to leave India.
Although Partition brought immense pain and tragedy, India chose the path of democracy, constitution, and development. Today, independent India proudly remembers the sacrifices and contributions of its freedom fighters.
“Freedom was not given to us easily; it is the result of countless sacrifices and struggles.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When did India’s freedom struggle begin?
India’s freedom struggle is considered to have begun after the Battle of Plassey in 1757, but it gained a strong and organized form with the First War of Independence in 1857. Over time, revolutionary movements, national organizations, and Gandhiji’s non-violent strategies strengthened the struggle.
2. Why is the Revolt of 1857 called the First War of Independence?
The Revolt of 1857 involved soldiers, farmers, kings, and ordinary citizens rising together against British rule. It was the first large-scale uprising with a national character, which is why it is remembered as the First War of Independence.
3. What was Mahatma Gandhi’s role in India’s freedom struggle?
Mahatma Gandhi led major non-violent movements such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement. His principles of non-violence and satyagraha mobilized millions and significantly weakened British control in India.
4. Why did the Partition of India happen in 1947?
The Partition of India occurred due to growing political disagreements, communal tensions, the Muslim League’s demand for Pakistan, and the British policy of “divide and rule.” Ultimately, the Mountbatten Plan divided the country into India and Pakistan.
5. What challenges did India face after independence?
After independence, India faced major challenges such as communal violence, refugee rehabilitation, economic instability, political integration of princely states, and the creation of a new constitution. Despite these challenges, India moved forward as a strong democratic nation.
References
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The information related to India’s freedom struggle is based on historical documents, biographies of freedom fighters, government archives, and books written by renowned historians. For deeper study and verification, the following sources can be referred to:
- India’s Struggle for Independence — Bipan Chandra
- History of Modern India — Bipan Chandra
- The Discovery of India — Jawaharlal Nehru
- The Story of My Experiments with Truth — Mahatma Gandhi
- National Archives of India — Government Publications
- Various historical resources published under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav