Indian Freedom Struggle & Gandhian Era

Definition

The Indian Freedom Struggle refers to the series of historical events and movements that led to India's independence from British rule. The Gandhian Era, a crucial phase within this struggle (roughly 1915-1947), is characterized by Mahatma Gandhi's leadership and his philosophy of non-violent resistance (Satyagraha).

Key Points

• Gandhi's Return: Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in January 1915, bringing with him the successful strategy of Satyagraha.
• Early Satyagrahas: His initial movements in India included Champaran (1917 - indigo planters), Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918 - industrial workers), and Kheda (1918 - peasants against revenue collection).
• Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22): The first large-scale non-violent movement against British rule, launched after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and Rowlatt Act.
• Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34): Initiated with the Dandi March (Salt Satyagraha), challenging the British salt monopoly and demanding Purna Swaraj (complete independence).
• Quit India Movement (1942): A 'do or die' call for immediate British withdrawal during World War II, leading to widespread protests and arrests of major leaders.
• Independence & Partition (1947): The culmination of the struggle, resulting in India's independence but also the tragic partition into India and Pakistan.

Why Important for Exams

• Core of Modern History: Forms the most significant part of Modern Indian History syllabus for all government exams.
• Frequent Questions: Questions on key movements, leaders, years, and specific events are common.
• Understanding India's Foundation: Essential for comprehending the political, social, and constitutional development of independent India.

Important Facts / Years

• 1915: Mahatma Gandhi returns to India.
• 1917: Champaran Satyagraha.
• 1919: Rowlatt Act, Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.
• 1920-22: Non-Cooperation Movement.
• 1922: Chauri Chaura incident (led to withdrawal of Non-Cooperation Movement).
• 1930: Dandi March (March 12), beginning of Civil Disobedience Movement.
• 1931: Gandhi-Irwin Pact.
• 1942: Quit India Movement (August 8).
• 1946: Cabinet Mission Plan.
• 1947: Indian Independence Act (August 15).

Remember

Focus on the chronology of major movements and Gandhi's evolving strategies of Satyagraha.

Related Topics

• Moderate and Extremist Phases of Indian Nationalism
• Revolutionary Movements in India
• Government of India Acts (1909, 1919, 1935)
• Partition of India
• Social and Religious Reform Movements