
The Indian National Movement is usually divided into three phases—the early phase ( 1885-1915), militant nationalism ( 1915-1947), and the Gandhian era ( 1915-1947) . The early movement focused mainly on constitutional reforms , appeals to the British government , and raising social awareness.
Early national movement ( 1885–1915)
- Establishment of the Indian National Congress ( 1885)
- On 28 December 1885 , the Indian National Congress ( INC) was founded on the initiative of A.O. Hume.
- The first session was held in Bombay (Mumbai) , presided over by Womesh Chandra Banerjee Did it.
- Moderate Phase (1885-1905)
- The main leaders of this time were Dadabhai Naoroji , Surendranath Banerjee , Gopal Krishna Gokhale , Firozshah Mehta , Badruddin Tyabji Etcetera.
- These leaders believed in bringing reforms to the British government through petitions , requests and constitutional reforms.
- After the partition of Bengal in 1905, two factions – Extremists and Moderates – began to form within the Congress .
- Partition of Bengal ( 1905)
- Lord Curzon partitioned Bengal on 16 October 1905 .
- in protest against partition Swadeshi Movement And Boycott movement It started.
- Lal-Bal-Pal (Lala Lajpat Rai , Bal Gangadhar Tilak , and Bipin Chandra Pal) emerged as the main leaders of militant nationalism.
- Surat Division ( 1907)
- Differences between the moderate and extremist leaders of the Congress increased.
- 1907 , the Congress was divided into two parts – Moderates and Extremists .
- Establishment of Muslim League ( 1906)
- 30 December 1906 in Dhaka under the leadership of Nawab Salimullah Muslim League was established.
- Its objective was to protect the interests of the Muslim community.
- Morley-Minto Reforms ( 1909)
- The Indian Councils Act , 1909 is also known as Morley-Minto Reforms.
- gave the right of separate electorate to the Muslims for the first time .
- Ghadar Movement ( 1913–1915)
- Lala Har Dayal , Kartar Singh Sarabha , and Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna Ghadar Party was established under the leadership of.
- Its objective was to launch an armed revolution against the British rule.
Characteristics of the initial movement
- Emphasis on constitutional reforms
- Petitions and appeals to the British government
- Social reform and political awareness
- Swadeshi Movement and Economic Nationalism
1915, a new phase of the Indian National Movement began , which is called the Gandhian era.
Early national movement ( 1885–1915)

Early national movement ( 1885–1915)
The initial phase of the Indian National Movement ( 1885-1915) mainly focused on constitutional reforms , social awareness and demanding rights from the British government in a peaceful manner. During this period, the Congress was formed and the spirit of nationalism developed.
1. Establishment of Indian National Congress ( 1885)
- On 28 December 1885 A. O. Hume through the efforts of Indian National Congress ( INC) was established.
- First session Bombay (Mumbai) , which was presided over by Womesh Chandra Banerjee Did it.
- Initially the objective of the Congress was to give greater participation to Indians in the administration and to bring about constitutional reforms.
2. Liberal Phase ( 1885-1905)
The leaders of this period Moderates It is called so. He believed in constitutional reforms and appealing to the British government.
Prominent leaders
- Dadabhai Naoroji
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale
- Surendranath Banerjee
- Pherozeshah Mehta
- Badruddin Tyabji
Key Features
- Demand for constitutional reforms
- Demand for freedom of press and expression
- Demand to give more opportunities to Indians in education and jobs
- by Dadabhai Naoroji ” Drainage Theory” In which it was told how the British were plundering the wealth of India .
- In 1892 Indian Councils Act It was passed , giving Indians limited representation in the legislature.
3. Partition of Bengal and Swadeshi Movement ( 1905-1911)
- 16 October 1905 To lord curzon Divided Bengal into two parts.
- Its objective was to adopt the policy of “divide and rule”.
- In opposition to this Swadeshi Movement And Boycott movement It started.
- During the movement, foreign clothes , British goods and educational institutions were boycotted.
- This movement strengthened the spirit of self-reliance among Indians.
4. Extremist Group and Surat Split ( 1907)
- Two factions were formed in the Congress – Moderates and Extremists .
- Prominent leaders of extremist group:
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak
- Bipin Chandra Pal
- Lala Lajpat Rai
- in 1907 Surat Session In 1844 the differences between the two factions increased so much that the Congress got divided.
5. Establishment of Muslim League ( 1906)
- On December 30 , 1906 Dhaka In Muslim League was established.
- Its founders Aga Khan , Nawab Salimullah , and Mohsin-ul-Mulk Were.
- The aim of the Muslim League was to ensure separate political representation for Muslims.
6. Morley-Minto Reforms ( 1909)
- This Indian Councils Act , 1909 It is also called.
- for the first time in Separate Electorate System A provision was made , which gave the Muslims the right to vote separately.
7. Ghadar Movement ( 1913-1915)
- in the US and Canada in 1913 Ghadar Party was established.
- Prominent leaders: Lala Har Dayal , Kartar Singh Sarabha , Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna .
- Objective: To launch an armed revolution against the British rule.
Characteristics of the early national movement
- Emphasis on constitutional reforms – The early leaders wanted to put pressure on the government through constitutional methods.
- Swadeshi and Boycott Movement – After 1905, the policy of boycott of British clothes and products was adopted.
- Development of the spirit of nationalism – During this period the spirit of nationalism grew rapidly among Indians.
- Oppressive policies of the British Government – The British tried to create divisions in Indian society through policies like Bengal partition and separate elections.
conclusion
1885-1915 was the time when the foundation of the Indian freedom struggle was laid. During this period, the feeling of nationalism strengthened among the Indian people and a mass movement began against the British government. With the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi in India in 1915 , the movement took a new turn and moved towards major revolutions like the non-cooperation movement.
Establishment of the Indian National Congress ( 1885)

Establishment of the Indian National Congress ( 1885)
Establishment of the Indian National Congress (INC) 28 December 1885 To A. O. Hume ( Allan Octavian Hume) It was formed due to the efforts of the Indian National Congress. This organisation was formed to protect the political rights of Indians and ensure their participation in the administration.
The main objective of the establishment
- between the Indians and the British Government Establish a dialogue .
- Indians under British rule To create awareness about rights and political freedom .
- In India National Integration and Political Consciousness To promote.
- constitutional reforms To demand and ensure the participation of Indians in the administration.
- In Indian society To lay the foundation of a national movement by reducing the discrimination on the basis of caste , religion and language .
Founder and key figure of Indian National Congress
- A. O. Hume ( Founder , Retired British Officer)
- Dadabhai Naoroji ( early nationalist leader , proponent of the ‘ Drainage Theory ‘ )
- Surendranath Banerjee ( Bengali leader , supporter of nationalist ideology)
- Pherozeshah Mehta ( prominent Congress leader from Mumbai)
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale ( supporter of constitutionalism and social reforms)
First session ( 1885)
- First session of the Indian National Congress 28–31 December 1885 among Bombay (Mumbai) It happened in.
- presiding over the convention Womesh Chandra Banerjee ( WC Banerjee) Did it.
- In this 72 delegates attended by people from different parts of the country.
Initial Phase ( 1885-1905) – Moderate Policy
Early Congress leaders Moderates They were called the British government constitutional and administrative reforms They used to make their demands in a peaceful manner.
Main demands
- Indians should get greater participation in the administration.
- Freedom of press and expression should be granted.
- Judicial and economic reforms should be made.
- Education should be spread.
British Government response
- Initially the British Government had ” Safety Valve “ seen as.
- Lord Dufferin (the then Viceroy of India) told the Congress Organizations supporting British policy As supported.
- But as the Congress started criticizing the British government , the attitude of the British changed.
Significance and impact
- in India since the formation of the Congress Political consciousness increased.
- It became the first all-India organisation which Laid the foundation of the national movement .
- This gave direction to Indians to organize and fight for their rights.
- Later , the Congress Partition of Bengal ( 1905) And Swadeshi Movement He led movements such as:
conclusion
The Indian National Congress was founded as a part of India’s freedom struggle An important start Initially it was demanding reforms under the British rule , but gradually it Main organization of freedom struggle After Mahatma Gandhi’s arrival in India in 1915, the nature of the Congress became more influential and moved towards mass movements.
Liberal phase ( 1885–1905)

A detailed study of the Liberal Phase ( 1885-1905)
Early Phase of Indian National Movement ( 1885-1905 ) Moderate Era It is known as the Indian Revolution. At this time Indian leaders were demanding reforms from the British government through peaceful and constitutional means. These leaders were known as Moderates It was said.
1. Characteristics of the liberal phase
- Constitutional and peaceful method – appealing , petitioning , and pleading to the government to reform British rule .
- Faith in British rule – Liberal leaders hoped that the British would carry out reforms for the welfare of Indians.
- Demand for constitutional reforms – Demand for giving more participation to Indians in the administration.
- Development of the spirit of nationalism – An effort to develop India as a nation by rising above caste , religion and language .
- Emphasis on social reforms – demands for education , freedom of the press , and economic reforms.
2. Prominent liberal leaders
- Dadabhai Naoroji – He presented the ‘ Drainage Theory ‘ and said that the British were plundering India economically.
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale – He was a supporter of participation in administration and social reforms for Indians.
- Surendranath Banerjee – He stressed on the promotion of press and education.
- Firozshah Mehta – He was a strong supporter of constitutional reforms.
- Badruddin Tyabji – He worked to promote Hindu-Muslim unity.
3. Major demands and struggles
The liberal leaders raised several demands aimed at better governance and administrative reforms in India.
(i) Demand for political reforms
- Indians should be given more space in the administration.
- Indians should be appointed to higher positions.
- The number of Indians in Legislative Councils should be increased.
(ii) Demand for economic reforms
- The outflow of money from India should be stopped ( Dada Bhai Naoroji’s ‘ Drainage Theory ‘) .
- Indian industries should be promoted.
- The burden of taxes on farmers should be reduced.
(iii) Demand for social reforms
- Higher education facilities should be provided to Indians.
- Freedom of press and expression should be granted.
- Caste system and communalism should be abolished.
4. Major Events ( 1885-1905)
(i) The Indian Councils Act , 1892
- The number of Indians in the legislatures was increased.
- Indians were allowed to discuss the budget for the first time.
- But these reforms were not as per the expectations of Indians.
(ii) “Drainage Theory” of Dadabhai Naoroji
- 1901 Dadabhai Naoroji introduced the “Drainage of Wealth” theory.
- It said that the British were withdrawing money from India and sending it to England , thereby weakening the Indian economy.
(iii) Partition of Bengal ( 1905) and the Swadeshi Movement
- On October 16 , 1905 lord curzon Divided Bengal into two parts.
- against the partition of Bengal Swadeshi Movement It started.
- This movement led to a change in the Congress Moderates and Extremists Differences grew between the two.
5. Limitations of the liberal phase
- Greater expectations from the British Government – Liberal leaders believed that the British Government would bring about reforms for the welfare of Indians.
- Lack of organisational strength – Their movement was limited to the upper class only ; they had no connection with the general public.
- Slow Strategy – The moderate leaders relied only on petitions , appeals , and agriculturists , which did not yield any concrete results.
- Neglect of the British Government – The British Government ignored their demands and adopted a strict repressive policy.
6. Conclusion
The liberal phase ( 1885-1905) was the first important phase of the Indian national movement. It developed political consciousness among the Indian masses and strengthened the feeling of nationalism. But the anger of the Indians kept increasing due to the neglect and atrocities of the British government , which led to the rise of the British Empire. After 1905, the extremists emerged .
After the Bengal Partition in 1905 and the Swadeshi movement , two ideologies emerged in the Congress—
- Moderates – Who wanted reforms through constitutional means .
- Extremists – who were in favour of direct struggle and movement .
Thus , the liberal phase proved to be the foundation of the Indian independence struggle , which inspired subsequent nationalist movements.
Partition of Bengal and Swadeshi Movement ( 1905–1911)

Partition of Bengal and Swadeshi Movement ( 1905–1911)
Partition of Bengal ( 16 October 1905) and Swadeshi Movement ( 1905–1911) These were important milestones in the Indian freedom struggle. The Swadeshi movement started across the country in protest against the Bengal partition , which inspired Indians to be self-reliant and fight against British rule.
1. Partition of Bengal ( 16 October 1905)
(i) Reason for Bengal Partition
- Bengal was the largest and administratively most important province of British India.
- The British government argued that Bengal was being divided for administrative convenience.
- But the real objective was to implement the policy of “divide and rule”.
- The national movement was growing rapidly in Bengal , to weaken it the British government divided it.
- Lord Curzon , who was the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905 , announced the partition.
(ii) Partition plan
16 October 1905 Bengal was divided into two parts:
- West Bengal- had a Bengali Hindu majority , and Bihar and Orissa were also added to it.
- East Bengal and Assam- It had Muslim majority .
The aim of the British government was to break the Hindu-Muslim unity so that the Indian National Movement would be weakened.
2. Opposition to Bengal partition
(i) Reaction of the Indians
- Indians called it an “attack on national unity” and a “devious ploy of the British Government”.
- Protests against partition spread throughout India Strikes , meetings , and demonstrations was organised.
- The people of Bengal 16 October 1905 To Day of Mourning Celebrated as.
- by Rabindranath Tagore ” Rakhi Bandhan” An event was organised in which Hindus and Muslims tied Rakhi to each other to show unity.
- A movement against British rule started all over the country.
3. Swadeshi Movement ( 1905-1911)
(i) Beginning of the Swadeshi Movement
- against the partition of Bengal Swadeshi Movement It started.
- Meaning of Swadeshi – “ Self-made” (use of indigenous goods and boycott of foreign goods).
- Its objective was to weaken the British rule economically and promote Indian industries.
(ii) Major activities of the Swadeshi Movement
- Boycott of foreign goods – British clothes , salt , sugar and other goods were boycotted.
- Promotion of indigenous products – Emphasis was laid on adopting Khadi and Indian products by running the spinning wheel.
- Promotion of National Education – Indian educational institutions were established after the boycott of British educational institutions.
- Establishment of national banks – to boycott British banks Swadeshi Banks were opened , such as ” Bharatiya Janata Bank” .
- Support to Swadeshi Movement – Students , women , farmers , and businessmen actively participated in it.
(iii) Prominent leaders of the Swadeshi movement
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak – He gave the slogan “Swaraj is my birthright”.
- Lala Lajpat Rai – He strengthened the Swadeshi movement in Punjab.
- Bipin Chandra Pal – He led the movement in Bengal.
- Aurobindo Ghosh – He promoted revolutionary ideology against the British government.
- Rabindranath Tagore – He led the cultural movement against the partition of Bengal.
4. Reaction of the British Government
- Repressive Policies – The British government resorted to police force and repressive laws to crush the movement.
- Supporting the Partition of Bengal – The British government tried to weaken Hindu-Muslim unity by supporting the Muslim League.
- Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909 – It provided for “separate electorates” , which further deepened the Hindu-Muslim divide.
- British repressive policies – leaders were arrested , newspapers were censored , and attempts were made to crush movements.
5. Revoking the Partition of Bengal ( 1911)
- Due to the continuous protests and movements of the Indian people The British government had to cancel the partition of Bengal in 1911 .
- In 1911 Lord Hardinge Declared that Bengal would be unified again.
- At the same time , the British government decided to shift the capital of India to Transfer from Calcutta to Delhi was announced.
6. Importance and impact of Swadeshi movement
(i) Positive impact
- Strength to the National Movement – This movement strengthened the feeling of nationalism among Indians.
- Development of Swadeshi Industries – This movement gave a boost to the Indian textile industry and other swadeshi businesses.
- Development of political consciousness – For the first time, the Indian people protested against British rule on a large scale.
- Spirit of Self-Reliance – The Swadeshi Movement developed a spirit of self-reliance and self-respect among Indians.
Limitations
- The movement was limited to urban areas – This movement was mainly limited to cities , the rural population was less affected by it.
- Repressive policy of the British government – To crush the movement, the government adopted strict repressive measures.
- Split in Congress : Differences grew between the Moderates and Extremists in the Congress , which led to the split of the Congress in the Surat session in 1907 .
7. Conclusions
The Partition of Bengal ( 1905) and the Swadeshi Movement ( 1905-1911) were important events in the Indian freedom struggle. This movement united Indians against British rule and promoted the spirit of self-reliance. Although the movement was weakened due to the repressive attitude of the government and internal differences within the Congress , it laid the foundation for the Khilafat and Non – cooperation Movements of 1919 .
Key Points
There were protests all over the country against the partition of Bengal.
✅ The Swadeshi movement increased the feeling of self-reliance among Indians.
✅ The British government had to withdraw the Bengal partition in
1911. ✅ This movement gave a new direction to the Indian freedom struggle.
Extremist Group and Surat Split ( 1907)
A detailed study of the extremist group and the Surat division ( 1907)
Introduction
1905 and the Swadeshi movement, two ideologies emerged in the Congress—
- Moderates – Who wanted to bring about change through constitutional reforms .
- Extremists – Who were in favour of direct struggle and movement against the British government .
The Congress split at the Surat session in 1907 , known as the “Surat Split”. This was an important event in the Indian freedom struggle.
1. Rise of Extremists
(i) Leaders and ideology of extremist group
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak – He gave the slogan “Swaraj is my birthright and I will have it”.
- Lala Lajpat Rai – He led the movement against the British government in Punjab.
- Bipin Chandra Pal – He intensified the Swadeshi movement in Bengal.
- Aurobindo Ghosh – He was a revolutionary thinker who wanted to overthrow the British rule.
(ii) Main ideas of extremist group
- Support for complete independence .
- against the British rule Militant agitation and direct action Emphasis on.
- To further intensify the Swadeshi movement and boycott.
- To spread revolutionary ideas among the youth.
- To fight directly against the atrocities of the British government.
2. Moderates ‘ Viewpoint
(i) Leader of the Moderate Party
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale – He supported constitutional reforms.
- Dadabhai Naoroji – He argued against economic exploitation.
- Surendranath Banerjee – He wanted reforms through dialogue and negotiation.
- Firozshah Mehta – He was demanding reforms from the British government.
(ii) Views of the Moderates
- Policy of achieving independence through constitutional reforms.
- Demand reforms through dialogue and petitions to the government.
- Avoid any kind of violence or confrontation.
- Demanding political rights through education , press and spreading awareness.
3. Surat Partition ( 1907)
(i) Due to Partition
- Conflict of ideology – The extremist group and the moderate group had different views towards British rule.
- Differences on Swadeshi Movement and Boycott – The extremist group wanted to intensify it , while the moderate group wanted only reforms.
- Leadership dispute – as Congress President at Surat Session, 1907 Rash Behari Ghosh was elected , which was opposed by the extremist group.
- British Government’s Tactics – The British tried to create a rift within the Congress and supported the moderate group.
(ii) Surat Session incident ( 1907)
- Congress session in 1907 Surat (Gujarat) It happened in.
- There was a heated debate between the extremist group and the moderate group.
- The extremist group wanted the Congress to openly oppose the British government , but the moderate group did not agree with this.
- The leaders of the extremist group wanted that the Speaker Bal Gangadhar Tilak but the moderate party Rash Behari Ghosh was made the chairman.
- Leaders of extremist group were removed from Congress He was expelled , due to which the Congress was divided into two parts.
4. Effects of Surat Partition
(i) Impact on Congress
- Congress has become weak and its effectiveness decreased.
- The British government benefited because unity among Indian leaders ended .
- The leaders of the moderate party started demanding constitutional reforms in collaboration with the British government.
- The extremist group separated and got involved in revolutionary activities.
(ii) Reaction of the British Government
- The British government supported the moderate group and tried to suppress the extremist group.
- in 1908 Bal Gangadhar Tilak was arrested and deported to Burma (Myanmar).
- Many extremist leaders were imprisoned or exiled.
(iii) Promotion of revolutionary movement
- Many leaders of extremist group Revolutionary activities got included in.
- In Bengal Anushilan Samiti And Yugantar Dal Revolutionary organizations like these were formed.
- in Punjab and Maharashtra Revolutionary movement It became faster.
5. Events after Surat Partition
(i) Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909
- The British government adopted the policy of “divide and rule”.
- Under this Act Muslims were given the right of separate electorate , which weakened Hindu-Muslim unity.
(ii) Cancellation of Bengal Partition in 1911
- Due to the protest of the Indian people, the British government withdrew the partition of Bengal in 1911 .
(iii) The Congress was re-united in 1916
- in 1916 Lucknow Pact The Moderates and the Extremists were reunited under him.
- in this agreement Congress and the Muslim League Together they placed their demands before the British Government.
6. Conclusion
The Surat split ( 1907) was a turning point in the Indian national movement . It weakened the Congress , but it further intensified the revolutionary movement. However , the Congress reunited in 1916 and the freedom struggle got a new direction.
Key Points
There was a difference of ideology between the extremist group and the moderate group.
✅ Congress was divided in the Surat session in
1907. ✅ The British government benefited and supported the moderate party.
✅ The leaders of the extremist group joined the revolutionary movement.
✅ The Congress was reunited under the Lucknow Pact in 1916 .” The Surat split certainly weakened the Indian National Movement , but it made the fight for Swaraj more aggressive.”
Establishment of Muslim League ( 1906)
Establishment of Muslim League ( 1906) – A detailed study
1. Background of the establishment of Muslim League
in 1906 ” All India Muslim League” was established with the support of the British government and on the initiative of some Muslim leaders. Its main objective was to protect the political , social and religious interests of Muslims.
(i) The main reasons for the establishment of the Muslim League
- “ Divide and Rule” Policy – The British government wanted to break the Hindu-Muslim unity.
- Partition of Bengal ( 1905) – This partition gave rise to Muslim separatism.
- Dissatisfaction with Congress – Some Muslim leaders considered Congress a Hindu-dominated organization.
- Support of the British Government – The British Government encouraged Muslim leaders to form a separate political organization.
- Political insecurity of Muslims – Some Muslim leaders feared that Muslims would be left in minority after the end of British rule.
2. Establishment of Muslim League
(i) When and where was it established ?
- Establishment of the Muslim League 30 December 1906 It was held in Dhaka (now Bangladesh).
- Bagh Palace A meeting was held in , in which Muslim leaders announced the establishment of the League.
(ii) Founding leader of the Muslim League
- Aga Khan ( Aga Khan III) – Became the first President of the Muslim League.
- Nawab Salimullah of Dhaka – He played an important role in the formation of the Muslim League.
- Viqar -ul-Mulk – He was a prominent leader of the Muslim League.
- Nawab Mohsin-ul-Mulk – He tried to give a separate political identity to the Muslims.
- Syed Ameer Ali – Considered the ideological leader of the Muslim League.
3. Objectives of the Muslim League
(i) Initial objective ( declared in 1906 )
- Loyalty to the British Government maintain.
- , social and religious rights of Muslims to do.
- To maintain good relations between the British Government and the Muslims.
- Separate political representation for Muslims To demand for.
- To spread modern education and political awareness among Muslims.
4. Early activities of the Muslim League
(i) Morley- Minto Reforms of 1909
- 1909 the British Government ” Constitutional Reform” did.
- In this Muslims were given the right of ” Separate Electorate ” .
- This meant that Muslims would vote only for Muslim candidates.
- This weakened the Hindu-Muslim unity.
(ii) Relations between the Congress and the Muslim League
- Initially the Muslim League was limited to protecting the interests of Muslims only.
- There was no conflict between the Congress and the Muslim League.
- Pact of 1916 , both of them together demanded reforms from the British government.
5. Muslim League and Indian Independence Struggle
(i) Change of policy in 1913
- In 1913 Muhammad Ali Jinnah Joined the Muslim League.
- He tried to unite the Muslim League with the Congress.
- After this the Muslim League started playing an active role in Indian politics.
(ii) Demand for a separate nation in 1930
- In 1930 , Allama Iqbal presented the idea of Pakistan in a speech at Allahabad.
- They said that The Muslim majority provinces of North-West India should be made a separate nation .
(iii) Pakistan Resolution in 1940 ( Lahore Resolution)
- 23 March 1940 , the Muslim League in Lahore passed a resolution for “Pakistan”.
- Muhammad Ali Jinnah Put forward the “Two -Nation Theory “.
1947 Partition of India and the creation of Pakistan in 1845
- 1947, India was divided into two countries—India and Pakistan.
- It is the Muslim League’s It was the result of the demand for a separate Muslim nation .
6. Effects of the establishment of the Muslim League
(i) Positive impact
The Muslim community got a political platform.
✅ Modern education and political awareness increased among Muslims.
✅ The participation of Muslims in Indian politics increased.
(ii) Negative impact
Hindu-Muslim unity weakened.
❌ Differences between the Congress and the Muslim League increased.
❌ The ” separate electorate” system promoted communal politics.
❌ Ultimately India was divided.
7. Conclusions
1906 was a turning point in Indian politics . Initially the organisation was loyal to the British government , but later it became a major force in Indian politics. After 1940 it strongly advocated for a separate Muslim nation (Pakistan) , which resulted in the partition of India in 1947 .
Key points (in brief)
Establishment of the Muslim League 30 December 1906 To It happened in Dhaka .
✅ Aga Khan , Nawab Salimullah , Viqar-ul-Mulk Such leaders were its founders.
✅ Its purpose at the beginning Protecting the interests of Muslims It was.
✅ Muslims got “separate electorate” in the Morley-Minto reforms of 1909. ✅
In 1940, the “Pakistan Resolution” was passed , paving the way for the partition of India.” The establishment of the Muslim League was the result of the divisive policy of the British Government in Indian politics , which ultimately led to the partition of India in 1947. “
Morley-Minto Reforms ( 1909)
Morley-Minto Reforms ( 1909) – A Detailed Study
1. Introduction
The “Morley-Minto Reforms” of 1909 was an important constitutional reform made by the British government to bring about political reform in India. It was Also known as the ” Indian Councils Act , 1909″ .
The main objectives of the Morley-Minto Reforms:
- Giving Indians greater participation in British administration.
- To break the Hindu-Muslim unity by giving separate representation to Muslims.
- To make the British rule stronger.
Why was it named “Morley-Minto Reforms” ?
- Lord Minto – He was the Viceroy of India at that time ( 1905-1910) .
- John Morley – He was the Secretary of State for India in Britain .
2. Major provisions of Morley-Minto Reforms
(i) Expansion of the Central and Provincial Legislative Councils
- To give Indians greater participation in government The number of members of the Central and Provincial Legislatures was increased .
- Number of members in the Central Legislature increased from 16 to 60 Has been done.
- The number of members in the provincial legislatures was also increased.
(ii) Provision of “Separate Electorate” for the first time
- Muslims were given the right to vote separately .
- Muslims could vote only for Muslim candidates.
- This provision was made on the demand of the Muslim League.
- From this Hindu-Muslim unity suffered a serious damage And communal politics got a boost in India.
(iii) Indians were allowed to join the “Legislative Councils” for the first time
- The members of the Legislature were given the right to discuss government policies and budget.
- But He had no real power .
- They could only ask questions , but the government was not bound to answer them.
(iv) Provision for the inclusion of Indians in the “Executive Council”
- For the first time an Indian was included in the ” Executive Council” of the British Government.
- ” Satyendra Prasanna Sinha ” was appointed as the Advocate General of India .
- This was a symbolic reform , as no real power was given to the Indians.
(v) No reform on freedom of press and expression
- This Act did not provide any protection for freedom of the press or civil liberties.
- The government continued its repressive policies in India.
3. Effects of Morley-Minto Reforms
(i) Positive impact
Indians got a chance to enter the legislature.
✅ For the first time an Indian was included in the Executive Council of the British Government.
✅ Indians were allowed to debate and question government policies.
(ii) Negative impact
Separate electorate broke the Hindu-Muslim unity.
❌ The British government successfully implemented
the policy of ” Divide and Rule “. ❌ Indians were not given any real power.
❌ Despite the reforms, the British government continued to suppress the Indians.
4. Reaction of Indian leaders
(i) Reaction of the Congress
- The Congress implemented these reforms ” Disappointing” and “inadequate” told.
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak and the leaders of the extremist group rejected these reforms.
- Some leaders of the moderate party accepted it partially , but were not satisfied.
(ii) Reaction of the Muslim League
- The Muslim League welcomed the Act.
- By giving them the right to “separate election” His political position was strengthened.
- The Muslim League’s relations with the British government became stronger.
5. Conclusion
of 1909 The Morley-Minto Reforms were a major example of the “divide and rule” policy of the British government. It certainly gave some political rights to Indians , but Real power still remained in the hands of the British government. The most dangerous effect was that The system of ” separate electorates” broke the Hindu-Muslim unity , which later paved the way for the partition of India ( 1947) .
6. Main points (in brief)
“Morley-Minto Reforms” were implemented in
1909. ✅ The number of Indians in the central and provincial legislatures was increased.
✅ For the first time, Muslims got the right of “
Separate Electorate “. ✅ Indians were included in the Government Executive Council.
✅ Indian leaders denounced these reforms as “inadequate” and “divisive”.
” Morley-Minto Reforms were a ploy of the British Government , which laid the foundation of communal politics in India and gave a new turn to the freedom movement.”
Ghadar Movement ( 1913–1915)
Ghadar Movement ( 1913-1915) – A Detailed Study
The Ghadar Movement was an important and revolutionary movement of India’s freedom struggle. It was organised by Indian immigrants abroad , especially in the US and Canada , and attempted to carry out an armed revolution against British rule.
1. Background of the Ghadar Movement
(i) Status of Indian emigrants
- In the 19th and 20th centuries Thousands of Indian workers Canada , America , South-East Asia and Africa I went in search of work.
- The British government discriminated against Indians and did not give them civil rights.
- Indians in Canada and America Segregation and racial discrimination had to face.
(ii) Political situation in India
- in 1905 Partition of Bengal Due to this the revolutionary activities increased in India.
- in 1909 Morley-Minto Reforms weakened Hindu-Muslim unity.
- By 1913 Bal Gangadhar Tilak , Lala Lajpat Rai and other leaders became victims of British repression.
2. Establishment of Ghadar Party ( 1913)
(i) When and where was the Ghadar Party established ?
- Ghadar Party was founded on 15 July 1913 in San Francisco (America).
- this party It was formed by Indian immigrants for armed revolution against British rule.
- Gurdwara Yugantar Ashram This was the main center of the movement.
(ii) Founder and prominent leader of the Ghadar Party
- Lala Hardayal – Main founder and thinker of Ghadar Party.
- Sant Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna – first president of the party.
- Bhagat Singh Thind – Prominent member of the party in America.
- Kanshi Ram – Military advisor to the party.
- Kartar Singh Sarabha – Young revolutionary and prominent leader.
(iii) The main objectives of the Ghadar Party
- To free India from British rule.
- To organise Indians living abroad for revolution.
- To support the revolution by sending arms to India.
- To separate Indian soldiers from the British Army and prepare them for rebellion.
3. Major activities of the Ghadar Movement ( 1913-1915)
(i) Publication of ” Gadar” magazine
- The Ghadar Party A newspaper named ” Gadar” was published , which was printed in Hindi , Punjabi , Urdu and other languages.
- In this magazine British atrocities exposed And Indians were inspired to revolution.
(ii) First World War and planning for rebellion ( 1914-1915)
- The First World War started in 1914 .
- The British government was busy in the war , so the Ghadar Party planned to revolt in India at this time.
- the US , Canada and other countries About 8,000 Indians returned to India to join the Ghadar Movement.
- Attacks were planned against British forces and government institutions in Punjab , Bengal and North India.
(iii) The Revolt of February 1915
- Kartar Singh Sarabha , Rash Behari Bose and other leaders planned to revolt on 21 February 1915 .
- Attempts were made to involve Indian soldiers of the British Army in this rebellion.
- But British spies got information about this and foiled the rebellion.
4. Reasons for the failure of the Ghadar movement
(i) The strictness of the British intelligence system
- The British government had received prior information about the activities of the Ghadar Party.
- The government started arresting Ghadar Party workers.
(ii) Failure of revolution in the Indian Army
- The Ghadar Party was not completely successful in getting Indian soldiers to join itself.
- The British government identified the revolutionaries in the Indian Army and arrested them.
(iii) Lack of resources
- The Ghadar Party had limited resources and weapons.
- There was not enough preparation for a successful revolt against the British government.
(iv) Internal differences and lack of leadership
- Lala Har Dayal was arrested in America in 1914 , weakening the party.
- There was a lack of a clear and organised plan for the revolt.
5. Impact and importance of the Ghadar movement
(i) Impact on Indian freedom struggle
- The Ghadar movement increased the spirit of revolution among the Indian youth.
- it is in india Bhagat Singh , Chandrashekhar Azad and other revolutionaries Became an inspiration for.
- Rash Behari Bose and other leaders later contributed to the “Azad Hind Fauj”.
(ii) The repressive policy of the British Government in India
- To suppress the Ghadar movement, the British government ” Lahore Conspiracy Case ( 1915)” Ran it.
- 1915 , many revolutionaries including Kartar Singh Sarabha were hanged.
- The British government imposed strict restrictions on the press and many Ghadar Party activists were imprisoned.
(iii) Feeling of nationalism among the Indian diaspora
- Due to the Ghadar movement, there was a great deal of tension among the Indians living abroad. Nationalist consciousness increased.
- Support for the Indian independence struggle grew in Canada , the United States and Europe.
6. Conclusion
The Gadar movement was an important but unsuccessful attempt in India’s freedom struggle. It was the first time when Indians living abroad attempted to organise and take up arms against British rule. Although this movement could not be successful , it inspired the Indian youth to fight for independence and made the British government realize that the spirit of Indian independence cannot be suppressed.
7. Main points (in brief)
The Ghadar Party was founded in San Francisco in
1913. ✅ Lala Hardayal , Kartar Singh Sarabha and Baba Sohan Singh Bhakna were its prominent leaders.
✅ ” Gadar” magazine was published , which spread the spirit of revolution.
✅ In 1915 a mutiny was planned in the British army but it failed.
✅ The British government suppressed it strictly and many leaders were hanged.
✅ This movement became an inspiration for the revolutionary movement in India.
” The Ghadar Movement was the first organised revolutionary effort directed from foreign countries in India’s freedom struggle , which further strengthened the spirit of patriotism and sacrifice among the Indian youth.”