Indian National Movement - A Brief Overview

Indian National Movement

The Indian National Movement was crucial in securing India’s independence from British colonial rule. Through relentless efforts and persistent struggle, it played a key role in shaping the nation’s journey to freedom and self-rule.

Setting Stage for Independence

The Indian National Movement (INM) started in the 19th century and included people from different regions, religions, linguistic backgrounds, and cultures. They demanded self-governance and sought freedom from the oppressive British Raj. The unity, devotion, and limitless hard work of these freedom fighters finally led to the Independence of India on August 15, 1947.

Significance in India’s History

The INM helped India break free from British rule and become an independent country. This important fight brought people together, created heroes, and showed the world how peaceful protest and unwavering resolve can change the course of history.

In this blog, we will deeply understand what the Indian National Movement is. We will learn about the history of India and the Indian National Movement’s relevance in leading to the birth of Modern India.

List of National Movements in India

Year	National Movement
1857	Revolt of 1857; Sepoy Mutiny
1885	Foundation of Indian National Congress
1905	Swadeshi Movement
1906	Muslim League Founded
1914	Gadar Party Movement
1916-1918	Home Rule Movement
1917	Champaran Satyagraha
1917	Kheda Satyagraha
1918	Ahmedabad Mill Strike
1919	Rowlatt Satyagraha
1920	Khilafat and Non-Cooperation Movement
1930	Civil Disobedience Movement
1940	Individual Satyagraha
1942	Quit India Movement

What is the Indian National Movement?

The Indian National Movement was a compilation of a series of movements which each had its significant role, finally resulting in the Independence of India:

The Muslim League:

The Muslim League, established in 1906, was a prominent political party in British India that led to the partition and creation of Pakistan. This League aimed to safeguard the interests and represent the Muslim minority in British India.

Morley-Minto Reforms 1909 (Indian Council Act 1909):

Implementation of the Morley-Minto Reforms 1909(Indian Council Act 1909) took place before the outbreak of World War I. These reforms introduced limited elective representation for Indians in legislative councils. The Muslim League supported this reform. These reforms became significant during World War I when political awareness grew, and Indians dreamt of freedom from the British and self-governance.

Home Rule Movement:

Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Annie Besant led the Home Rule Movement, advocating for self-governance within the British Empire.

Lucknow Pact:

The 1907 Surat split within the Indian National Congress was later healed through the Lucknow Pact. This pact showed that the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League were united in their efforts against the British.

Partition of Bengal 1905:

The official reason for the controversial Partition of Bengal 1905 was improved administrative practices. But Indians suspected that this reason was just a tactic under the British policy of Divide and Rule.

Swadeshi Movement:

As a response to the partition of Bengal, the Swadeshi Movement was initiated. Under this movement, Indians boycotted foreign goods and promoted indigenously produced materials. This movement arose as a symbol of unity and nationalism.

Komagata Maru Movement:

In 1914, the Komagata Maru, a ship carrying 376 Indian immigrants, primarily Punjabis, arrived in Canada, where many passengers faced Canada’s discriminatory immigration laws. The people onboard faced further hardships due to police action after returning to Calcutta, which symbolized the racial discrimination and prejudice faced by Indians in British colonies.

Ghadar Movement:

The Ghadar Movement was initiated in 1913 by Indian immigrants in the United States and Canada aiming to end the oppressive British rule. The Ghadar Party published revolutionary literature, including the Ghadar newspaper, to raise awareness about the cause.

Indian National Movement Notes PDF

This Indian National Movement Notes PDF is specially designed for UPSC aspirants to take key notes about the Indian National Movement. This is an accessible learning material that covers the entire spectrum of events that took place under the INM. Download this PDF to learn details about India’s Struggle for Independence.

Phases of the Indian National Movement

The Movement took place in 3 phases over the years from 1885 to 1947:

Moderate Phase(1885-1905):

The first phase of the Indian national movement aimed to attain a dominion status within the British Empire. The leaders then demanded political, social, and economic reforms rather than complete independence. This movement led to the initial idea of political awareness and reforms. These initial efforts paved a path for future radical movements.

Extremist Phase(1905-1919):

This phase aimed at achieving swaraj or self-government independent from the British Raj. The leaders assertively demanded political freedom. They followed militant forms of protest and collective action by uniting Indians nationwide. They laid the foundation for the idea of seeking complete Independence. Famous leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai were prominent in this phase. They used non-cooperation, boycotts, and civil disobedience to resist British policies and repression. This period witnessed movements like the Swadeshi Movement and the Non-Cooperation Movement.

Gandhian Phase(1919-1947):

During this period, Mahatma Gandhi emerged as a prominent figure in India. His idea of Non-violence and Satyagraha aimed at securing complete freedom from the British Government. The Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement were prominent campaigns during this phase. Mass mobilization and peaceful protests played a key role. This phase ultimately brought success to the Indian Freedom struggle.

Indian National Movement Moderate Phase

Important Moderate Personalities: Architects of Political Reform

The early Indian National Congress (INC) was led by moderates who advocated for gradual political reforms within the British Raj. Here are some key figures:

• Dadabhai Naoroji: “Grand Old Man of India,” he championed economic arguments like the “Drain of Wealth” theory, highlighting the economic exploitation of India.
• Gopal Krishna Gokhale: Emphasized education and moral values, believing public participation (“Sarvajanikarana”) was crucial for reform.

These moderates, along with others like Dinshaw Wacha and Mahadev Govind Ranade, used petitions and negotiations to push for greater Indian participation in government.

Key Features: Constitutional Reform and Economic Independence

The Indian National Congress (INC), established in 1885, marked the beginning of organized political resistance against British rule in India. Early leaders, known as Moderates, advocated for constitutional methods, including petitions and negotiations, to achieve political reforms. Their goal was to work within the British system to increase Indian representation in government and civil services.

The movement also aimed to address economic issues, social reforms, and educational advancement. Dadabhai Naoroji’s “Drain Theory” highlighted how British exploitation was economically draining India, stressing the importance of economic self-sufficiency.

Key Events: Petitions, Cooperation, and Education

Moderates presented their demands for political reforms through memoranda and petitions to the British authorities. A significant example is the protest against the “Ilbert Bill” in 1883, which opposed racial discrimination in the judiciary.

Efforts were made to foster understanding and cooperation with the British, aiming to persuade them to implement reforms voluntarily. The early sessions of the INC focused on civil rights, local self-government, and economic policies.

Moderates also emphasized the value of Western education and the English language as vital tools for social and political progress.

Indian National Movement Extremist Phase

During the early 20th century, the Indian National Movement underwent a radical shift known as the Extremist Phase (1905-1916). This pivotal period was marked by significant events leaving a great impact on the Indian history:

Partition of Bengal:

In 1905, the British authorities partitioned the state of Bengal into East Bengal, Assam, and West Bengal, creating discontent. People felt that this was an evil attempt to create a divide between the united population. Partition led to extreme outrage, protests, and united action against colonial rule.

Swadeshi Movement and Boycott:

In response to the Partition, Extremists launched the Swadeshi Movement, promoting indigenous products and boycotting British goods. This movement aimed at promoting the feeling of self-sufficiency. People across India actively boycotted British-manufactured goods, weakening the colonial economic base.

Surat Split:

The Surat Split in 1907 caused a significant internal conflict within the Indian National Congress. Extremists, led by figures like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal, advocated a more radical approach involving direct action and non-cooperation with the British. This was in contrast to the Moderates, who preferred a cautious, constitutional approach.

The Extremist Phase saw a shift of ideology from diplomatic to more radical and assertive. Mass mobilization took place to make a clear demand for Swaraj. This did not directly lead to the independence of India but played a pivotal role in shaping the journey of the Indian freedom struggle.

History of India and the Indian National Movement

The history of India has always seen powerful actions against several factors that caused discontent among the general public:

Socio-Economic Factors: Igniting Discontent

Looking at India’s records, economic and social inequalities have always caused discontent in the public. The country’s agricultural economy saw a difficult-to-bridge gap between poor farmers and wealthy landowners. British colonial rule worsened these problems, leading to even more economic exploitation.

Political Agitation: Demand for Representation

As the 1800s went on, political protests became stronger. People adopted a highly radical ideology and demanded a say in running the country. Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji and Bal Gangadhar Tilak spoke up for Indians to have a role in decision-making.

Influence of International Movements: Sparks of Inspiration

Indian leaders looked to other nations for inspiration. They saw how countries like Russia, the United States, and Ireland fought for their liberty. These international movements encouraged Indians to desire freedom, equality, and the right to decisiveness.

Causes of Indian National Movement

The Indian National Movement from 1857 to 1947 was a struggle ignited due to various factors that collectively influenced people to take repressive measures:

Economic Exploitation: Draining Indian Resources

India possessed vast and diverse resources, including rich mineral deposits, fertile land, valuable ores, abundant water sources, and diverse landscapes that attracted foreigners to take advantage of these. British colonial rulers robbed these resources to enrich the British Empire. The suffering of ordinary Indians, exploited for the benefit of a foreign power, sowed the seeds of revolt.

Cultural Suppression: Struggles of Identity

The British Empire sought to suppress the very essence of Indian identity. Languages, traditions, cultures, and values were used to cause a divide between the unified Indian Population. The national movement, in part, was a reclamation of these suppressed cultural treasures. Indians experienced the need to restore the original sense of pride they always had in their varied cultures.

Political Subjugation: Yearning for Self-Governance

The colonial domination ignited a feeling of oppressive subjugation in the hearts of Indians. They urgently needed to overpower these colonial masters and regain political autonomy and self-governance. The late 19th and 20th centuries witnessed a rise of nationalism and democratic values.

These elements built the foundation and cornerstone of India’s struggle for Independence.

Important Factors Responsible for the Indian National Movement

The idea of the Indian National Movement originated from the rise of consciousness, the intellectual awakening, and the influence of remarkable leaders. This movement changed the identity of India from a colony to an independent nation on August 15, 1947.  

Rise of Consciousness: Emergence of Nationalism

This movement was fueled by the atrocities of colonial rule, the impact of British policies on Indian society and the economy, and simultaneously exposure of Indians to the ideals of liberty and self-determination through Western education. It is said that Indian leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal began to sow the seeds of nationalistic fervor through their writings and speeches.

Intellectual Awakening: Voices of Dissent

One of the most peculiar features of the Indian National Movement was the intellectual awakening that took place. Visionaries like Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale played a pivotal role in articulating the concerns of the Indian population. They used a combination of Western political thought and traditional Indian values to put down British rule.

Moreover, the Indian press, through publications like ‘The Kesari,’ and ‘The Indian Mirror’ became powerful mediums for spreading the message of dissent and advocating for self-governance.

Influential Figures: Galvanizing of Masses

The Indian National Movement achieved monumental success because many influential figures rose to prominence. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, and Subhas Chandra Bose, with their dedication and vision for a free India, inspired millions of people to join movements like Civil Disobedience, Quit India, etc., that forced the British to agree to the demands of Indian Masses and liberalize them of the colonial rule.

Important Centers of Indian National Movement: Hubs of Revolution

Let’s discuss some of the key events of the Indian Freedom struggle and the important centers of the Indian National Movement from 1857 to 1947 associated with them:

1857 – Revolt of 1857:

The First War of Independence in India started in Meerut initially when the Indian military men disagreed with using the controversial cartridges and mutinied. The revolt spread to various northern and central Indian regions, with significant centers of resistance in Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Jhansi. Prominent figures included Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, Bahadur Shah II, Kunwar Singh, and Begum Hazrat Mahal.

1905-1911 – Swadeshi Movement:

The Swadeshi Movement, aimed at boycotting British goods and accepting the idea of complete self-reliance, was particularly active in Calcutta, the eastern region, and West Bengal.

1914-1917 – Ghadar Movement:

The Ghadar movement was held in the United States and Canada by the Punjabi immigrants from India to warn foreigners about how oppressive British rule was in India.

1916-1918 – Home Rule Movement:

The Home Rule Movement was a pan-Indian movement led by leaders like Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak during the Extremist phase.

1917 – Champaran Satyagraha:

The Champaran Satyagraha, led by Mahatma Gandhi, was an act of civil resistance against the oppressive Indigo plantation practices in Bihar.

1918 – Peasant Satyagraha:

The Peasant Satyagraha, led by Mahatma Gandhi, happened in Kheda, Gujarat, where farmers protested against oppressive taxation and revenue policies.

1919 – Rowlatt Satyagraha:

The Rowlatt Satyagraha, a protest against the repressive Rowlatt Act that granted the colonial government powers to arrest and detain individuals without trial and to suppress political activities that were considered to be threatening to British rule, was particularly active in the northern region near Amritsar.

1920 – Khilafat and Non-cooperation Movement:

The Khilafat and Non-cooperation Movement was a nationwide campaign, especially in Chauri Chaura, Uttar Pradesh.

1930 – Civil Disobedience Movement and Dandi March:

The Civil Disobedience Movement, initiated by Gandhi, was marked by the famous Dandi March against the High Salt Tax, which began in Dandi, Gujarat, and had a nationwide impact.

1942 – Quit India Movement:

The Quit India Movement was a call for immediate independence and was a pan-India campaign.

Sample Questions on the Indian National Movement

These questions are designed to help applicants get a feel for the kind of topics covered in government exams. To fully prepare, it’s advised to review the previous year’s question papers and solutions.

Q.1. Which of these acts was infamously known as the ‘Black Bill’ during the Indian freedom struggle?

• A) Government of India Act
• B) Indian Council Act
• C) Rowlatt Act
• D) Child Marriages Restraint Act
  Answer: C) Rowlatt Act

Q.2. The provision for separate electorates for Hindus and Muslims was introduced in which act?

• A) Minto-Morley Reforms
• B) Government of India Act, 1935
• C) Mountbatten Plan
• D) Montague-Chelmsford Reforms
  Answer: A) Minto-Morley Reforms

Q.3. Who played a key role in the formation of the Indian National Congress (INC) as an English officer?

• A) Sir Stafford Cripps
• B) A.O. Hume
• C) Sir John Simon
• D) Lord Curzon
  Answer: B) A.O. Hume

Q.4. The enactment of the Rowlatt Act immediately led to which major event?

• A) Non-Cooperation Movement
• B) Arrival of the Simon Commission
• C) Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
• D) Communal Awards
  Answer: C) Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

Q.5. Who said, “Nehru is a patriot while Jinnah is a politician”?

• A) Abdul Gaffar Khan
• B) Maulana Azad
• C) Sir Mohammed Iqbal
• D) Mahatma Gandhi
  Answer: C) Sir Mohammed Iqbal

Q.6. In which session of the Indian National Congress was Poorna Swaraj (Complete Independence) declared as the goal?

• A) Lahore, 1929
• B) Lucknow, 1916
• C) Tripuri, 1939
• D) Lahore, 1940
  Answer: A) Lahore, 1929

Q.7. Who started the Khilafat Movement in India?

• A) Muhammad Ali Jinnah
• B) Dr. Zakir Hussain
• C) Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed
• D) Ali Brothers
  Answer: D) Ali Brothers

Q.8. The Hunter Commission was set up by the British to investigate which incident?

• A) Chauri-Chaura Incident
• B) Jallianwala Bagh Tragedy
• C) Khilafat Movement

D) Non-Cooperation Movement
Answer: B) Jallianwala Bagh Tragedy

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Indian National Movement UPSC

Integration into UPSC Syllabus

The Indian National Movement from 1857 to 1947 is relevant to competitive exams like UPSC. The background of the Indian national movement is a core component of the UPSC syllabus, spanning every little detail about it. To learn about the background of the Indian National Movement and freedom struggle, refer to Chegg and the Indian National Movement notes given above as they provide an easy understanding of the toughest concepts. If you have expert knowledge on related topics, share it with others on Chegg and help them in their exam preparation.

Relevance for Aspirants’ Success

Having in-depth knowledge about the Indian National Movement and the constitution of India is important for aspirants to crack these competitive exams and excel with top-notch ranks. The information given by this movement equips aspirants with historical, political, and social insights, enabling a deeper understanding of India’s evolution and governance.

Conclusions

Embracing the Legacy of Struggle and Sacrifice

This was a deeply knowledgeable blog about the history of India and the Indian National Movement before it took place and the shift of India’s landscape after it, the Important centers of the Indian National Movement, the factors leading to the movement, and the outcomes of each of the slightest movements that made powerful changes to bring India to such an extent that it proudly calls itself a democratic, sovereign and Independent Nation today. This struggle saw great sacrifice, acts of united efforts, and unconditional devotion to our Motherland.

Lessons for Contemporary India

Aspirants must learn from the freedom fighters, their struggles, and their continual commitment to their goals. Aspirants must embody the characteristics of people from the Indian national movement and the constitution of India in themselves so that they can also implement these in the future and lead needy people to happy lives. The movement underscores the importance of democratic values, inclusive governance, and the active participation of citizens in shaping the nation’s destiny, which every Indian citizen must know about.

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