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GANDHIAN MOVEMENTS

Hey Mumbai University FYBA IDOL students! Today, let’s delve into the world of History Of Modern India , focusing on “GANDHIAN MOVEMENTS.” Get ready for an exciting journey through the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi, and the transformative movements he spearheaded. Here’s what’s on our agenda:

First off, we’ll take a glimpse into the early life of Gandhi and his remarkable role in the initial days of the freedom movement. From his humble beginnings to becoming the beacon of nonviolent resistance, Gandhi’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Next, let’s uncover the backdrop of the Non-Cooperation Movement, a watershed moment in India’s struggle for independence. We’ll explore the reasons behind its inception and the simmering discontent that fueled this historic movement.

Then, it’s time to dive deep into the heart of the Non-Cooperation Movement, unraveling its programs and the remarkable progress it made in galvanizing the masses against British rule. From boycotting foreign goods to refusing to cooperate with colonial institutions, this movement shook the foundations of British authority in India.

Moving along, we’ll journey through the years 1920-1922, witnessing the ebbs and flows of the Indian freedom struggle. It was a period marked by fervent activism, mass mobilization, and the stirring call for Swaraj or self-rule. But wait, there’s more! We’ll also explore the events leading up to the Civil Disobedience Movement, a bold step towards challenging unjust laws and asserting the power of nonviolent resistance.

Then, we’ll zoom in on the First Phase of the Civil Disobedience Movement, where Gandhi’s call for Satyagraha echoed across the nation, inspiring countless Indians to defy colonial authority peacefully yet resolutely. And let’s not forget the second phase of the Civil Disobedience Movement, where the momentum of protest gathered steam, leading to significant milestones in India’s quest for freedom.

Last but certainly not least, we’ll shine a spotlight on the Quit India Movement, a stirring chapter in India’s struggle for independence. From fiery speeches to acts of defiance, this movement embodied the spirit of relentless resistance against colonial rule.  So, FYBA IDOL Mumbai University students, get ready to learn about –”GANDHIAN MOVEMENTS” with customized idol notes just for you. Let’s jump into this exploration together

GANDHIAN MOVEMENTS
GANDHIAN MOVEMENTS
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QUESTION 1:- Write a note on early life and role played by Gandhi during his initial days of freedom movement.

   Introduction: 

      Mahatma Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, in Kathiawar, Gujarat, played a crucial role in India’s journey to independence. His philosophy of non-violent resistance, known as Satyagraha, has left an indelible mark on global movements for justice and freedom.

  1. Early Life and Education:

    • Born in Gujarat, Gandhi pursued law studies in England.
    • After practicing law in Bombay, he ventured to South Africa in 1893, where he engaged in a struggle against racial discrimination, setting the stage for his future activism in India.

  2. Role in Indian Independence Movement:

    • Returning to India in 1915, Gandhi addressed local issues such as the challenges faced by Champaran’s indigo farmers, the plight of peasants in Kheda, Gujarat, and an industrial dispute in the textile mill in Ahmedabad.
    • Despite facing arrests and imprisonment, Gandhi emerged as a prominent leader within the Indian National Congress.

  3. Philosophy of Non-Violent Resistance:

    • Gandhi’s Satyagraha became the cornerstone of his leadership.
    • Emphasizing the power of truth and non-violence, he inspired millions to join the struggle for India’s independence.

  Conclusion:

       Mahatma Gandhi’s early life and pivotal role in the Indian independence movement laid the groundwork for India’s eventual liberation. His unwavering commitment to non-violent resistance and leadership during various movements continue to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for justice and freedom movements worldwide. Gandhi’s legacy endures, illustrating the enduring impact of peaceful resistance in the face of adversity.

QUESTION 2 :- Discuss the background of Non- Cooperation Movement

  Introduction:

        The Non-Cooperation Movement was a crucial part of India’s fight for freedom, led by Mahatma Gandhi in the 1920s. It all started because people were unhappy with how the British were ruling India. Let’s look at the key reasons behind this movement.

  1. Rowlatt Act, 1919:

    • In 1919, the British passed a law called the Rowlatt Act. It was supposed to stop activities they thought were rebellious, but it took away basic rights from people.
    • The law allowed the government to put people in jail without giving them a fair chance to defend themselves. It also let them search and arrest anyone without needing a proper reason.

  2. Anti-Rowlatt Satyagraha:

    • People all over India didn’t like the Rowlatt Act. Mahatma Gandhi started a group called the Satyagraha Sabha in 1919. They promised to peacefully disobey the law and willingly go to jail.
    • The whole country joined in, with strikes and big protests showing that everyone was against this law. This made it clear that the British policies were not accepted by the Indian people.

  3. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre:

    • In 1919, something terrible happened in Amritsar. British soldiers fired on a peaceful crowd in Jallianwala Bagh, killing many people. This made Indians very angry and sad.
    • The massacre made people even more determined to stand up against British rule. It became a turning point, intensifying the demand for India to be free.

  4. Impact of World War I:

    • After World War I, life in India became harder. People were struggling, and the British government didn’t do much to help.
    • The difficult times and the British ignoring the problems faced by Indians made everyone feel it was time to say ‘no’ to the British rulers.

 Conclusion: 

     So, the Non-Cooperation Movement grew from the unfair Rowlatt Act, the heartbreaking Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, and the tough times after World War I. It was a peaceful way of saying, “We don’t want your rules anymore; we want to govern ourselves.” This movement was a big change in how Indians fought for freedom, showing the world that non-violence could be a powerful force for justice and self-rule.

QUESTION 3 :- Explain the programmes and progress of Non-Cooperation Movement

 Introduction:

     The Non-Cooperation Movement, led by Mahatma Gandhi in the early 1920s, played a crucial role in India’s fight for independence. It was not just about saying “no” to British rule; it involved specific plans and made important progress towards India’s self-governance. Let’s dive into the details of the programs and progress of this significant movement.

 Programs:

  1. Destructive Aspects:

     a. Surrender of Titles and Honors: People were asked to give back titles and honors given by the British government. This was a way of showing that they didn’t accept the authority of the British.
    b. Boycott of Government Institutions: The movement encouraged everyone to avoid British-controlled schools, colleges, and law courts. This was a way of expressing disagreement with the British system.
    c. Refusal to Attend Official Functions: People were urged not to go to events organized by the British government or its supporters. It was a form of peaceful protest.
    d. Boycott of British Goods: Indians were told to stop buying foreign goods and use things made in India. This idea, called swadeshi, aimed to promote local products.

  2. Constructive Aspects:

    a. Arbitration Boards: The movement wanted to set up local boards to solve problems instead of using British-controlled courts.
    b. Promotion of Swadeshi and Khadi: There was a push to use things made in India, like khadi (homespun cloth). This was a symbol of self-reliance and a way to oppose foreign-made goods.
    c. National Schools and Colleges: The movement aimed to create schools and colleges free from British control. This was about promoting education with Indian values.

  Progress:

  1. Mass Participation: Many people from different parts of society joined the Non-Cooperation Movement. This included students, lawyers, and everyday people.
  2. Alternative Institutions: The movement successfully set up schools, colleges, and boards to solve issues locally. This showed progress in creating structures independent of British influence.
  3. Financial Support: A fund called the Tilak Swarajya Fund was started to support the movement. People gave money willingly to help the cause.
  4. Symbolic Acts of Resistance: People did things like burning foreign-made cloth in public. Many also started wearing khadi as a way to show they stood against British economic control.

  Conclusion:

       The Non-Cooperation Movement was not just about saying “no” to the British; it had detailed plans. The programs included rejecting British honors, avoiding their institutions, and using Indian products. The movement progressed with the active involvement of the masses, the establishment of independent institutions, financial support, and symbolic acts of resistance. All of these played a significant role in shaping the path towards India’s fight for freedom.

QUESTION 4 :- Briefly explain the progress of Indian Freedom Struggle between 1920-1922.

 Introduction: 

    The time between 1920 and 1922 was super important for India’s fight for freedom. Big events happened during this period that shaped how India moved toward independence. Let’s look at what went on and how things changed.

  1. Non-Cooperation Movement:

    • Beginning: In 1920, Mahatma Gandhi started the Non-Cooperation Movement. He did this because people were upset about the Rowlatt Act, the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, and other things the British were doing.
    • What Happened: During this movement, people did things like avoiding British-controlled schools and courts, giving back titles given by the British, and promoting things made in India. There was a lot of support from the public, with many joining in protests and showing they wanted freedom.
    • How It Went: The movement had a lot of people taking part, and there were symbolic acts like burning foreign-made cloth. People also started setting up their own schools and colleges. It was a big step toward making India independent.

  2. Suspension of Non-Cooperation Movement:

    • Stopping the Movement: In 1922, Gandhi suddenly stopped the Non-Cooperation Movement. This happened after a clash in Chauri Chaura turned violent, leading to deaths. It was a tough decision, and many people were upset.
    • Impact: This pause caused disappointment and some problems between different groups of people. But it also made the freedom movement stronger and spread to more parts of India.

  3. Emergence of the Swaraj Party:

    • Split in Congress: Because of the pause in the Non-Cooperation Movement, the leaders in Congress didn’t agree on what to do next.
    • New Party: Some leaders, like C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru, formed a new group called the Swaraj Party. They wanted a stronger approach to get self-rule within the British Empire.

   Conclusion: 

         So, between 1920 and 1922, a lot happened. The Non-Cooperation Movement started with big plans, but it had to stop because of some violence. This made things a bit difficult, but it also made the freedom movement stronger. It led to the Swaraj Party emerging as a new force. Even though there were challenges, this period was a crucial time that shaped how India moved forward in its journey towards independence.

QUESTION 5 :-Describe the events leading to the Civil Disobedience Movement.

    Introduction: 

        The Civil Disobedience Movement was a big part of India’s fight for freedom. It happened because people were tired of British rule, and some key events led up to it. Let’s look at what those events were.

  1. Simon Commission:

    • What Happened: In 1927, the British sent a group called the Simon Commission to check how the Indian government was working and suggest changes.
    • Problem: The issue was, there were no Indian members in the commission. This made a lot of people angry, and they protested and boycotted the commission.

  2. Nehru Report:

    • In Response: To counter the Simon Commission, the Indian National Congress asked Jawaharlal Nehru to lead a team and create a constitution for India.
    • What It Said: The Nehru Report, which came out in 1928, asked for India to have more control and be a dominion. It also wanted more power for provinces.

  3. Lahore Congress:

    • Meeting in Lahore: In December 1929, the Indian National Congress had a big meeting in Lahore.
    • Big Declaration: At this meeting, Jawaharlal Nehru announced that India’s goal was complete independence, or Poorna Swaraj.

  4. Salt Satyagraha:

    • March to the Sea: In March 1930, Mahatma Gandhi did something special called the Salt Satyagraha. He walked from Sabarmati Ashram to the sea at Dandi.
    • Why It Happened: This was a peaceful protest against the British controlling salt production and putting taxes on it. Gandhi broke the salt laws, starting the Civil Disobedience Movement.

  5. Civil Disobedience Movement:

    • What It Included: The Civil Disobedience Movement had many peaceful protests. People stopped buying British goods, refused to pay taxes, and didn’t cooperate with the British government.
    • A Lot of People Joined: Many people joined these protests. Gandhi was even arrested, along with thousands of Indians.

 Conclusion: 

      So, the events leading to the Civil Disobedience Movement began with the Simon Commission, which led to protests. The Nehru Report suggested changes, and in Lahore, India declared its aim for complete independence. The Salt Satyagraha and the Civil Disobedience Movement that followed were peaceful ways of saying, “We want freedom.” These events showed the world that India was determined to rule itself.

QUESTION 6 :- Write a note on the First Phase of the Civil Disobedience Movement.

   Introduction:

        The First Phase of the Civil Disobedience Movement was a significant event in India’s fight for freedom. It started on March 12, 1930, when Mahatma Gandhi led a peaceful protest against the British government’s control and tax on salt. The movement gained momentum and became a powerful symbol of resistance against British rule.

 Main Programs of the Movement:

  1. Violation of Salt Laws: Mahatma Gandhi chose salt as a symbol because the government regulated its sale and imposed taxes. After a 24-day Long March, on April 5, 1930, Gandhi broke the Salt Laws by picking up a handful of salt at Dandi, formally launching the movement.

  2. Non-Cooperation with Government: People all over the country joined hands to disobey various laws. They refused to pay land revenue and other taxes, boycotted law courts, elections, government schools, and colleges. Foreign goods were boycotted, and people burned foreign clothes.

  3. Peaceful Protests: Peaceful picketing of liquor shops, mass strikes, and demonstrations were organized. Government officials resigned from their jobs, and citizens refrained from joining civil, military, or police services.

  Spread of the Movement:

       The movement quickly spread across the country. The violation of Salt Laws was followed by breaking of Forest Laws in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Central Provinces. Peasants in various regions refused to pay land revenue and rent, resulting in the confiscation of their lands.

  Role of Women:

         A noteworthy aspect of the movement was the active participation of women. Thousands of women left their homes to join the protests. They played a crucial role in picketing shops, offering themselves for arrest, and participating in the campaign to boycott foreign goods.

  Conclusion:

       The First Phase of the Civil Disobedience Movement was a milestone in India’s struggle for independence. It united people from all walks of life in a peaceful protest against unjust British laws. The movement inspired millions to stand up against oppression, marking a crucial chapter in India’s journey towards freedom.

QUESTION 7 :- Explain the progress of Civil Disobedience movement during the second phase.

 Introduction:

     The Second Phase of the Civil Disobedience Movement was a crucial part of India’s journey to freedom, led by Mahatma Gandhi. It began on January 7, 1932, after the disappointment of the Round Table Conference. This phase aimed at demanding Dominion status for India and the release of political prisoners from British jails.

 Main Events of the Movement:

  1. Objective of Dominion Status: The primary goal of the Second Phase was to ask the British government to grant India Dominion status, a step closer to self-rule, and to free political prisoners who were fighting for India’s independence.

  2. The Dandi March: One of the most iconic moments of the movement was the Dandi March. It involved a 241-mile journey from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, where Gandhi and his followers defied British Salt Laws by making salt. This symbolic act inspired millions to join the cause.

  Government Response and Suspension:

        The British government responded harshly, arresting thousands, including Gandhi. The movement paused in May 1933, following the signing of the Gandhi-Irwin Pact. This agreement led to the release of political prisoners and allowed the Indian National Congress to participate in the Round Table Conference.

  Impact on the Freedom Struggle:

  1. Power of Non-violent Resistance: The Second Phase showcased the potency of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience in achieving political goals. This approach proved that change could be pursued without resorting to violence.

  2. Role of Indian National Congress and Gandhi: The movement elevated the Indian National Congress and established Gandhi as the undisputed leader. His principles of non-violence and civil disobedience became synonymous with India’s fight for freedom.

  3. Impact on British Government: The British government had to acknowledge the strength of the Indian nationalist movement and the necessity for political reform. This acknowledgment eventually paved the way for Indian independence in 1947.

  Conclusion: 

      The Second Phase of the Civil Disobedience Movement, marked by the Dandi March and the demand for Dominion status, played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence. It not only demonstrated the effectiveness of non-violent resistance but also brought the Indian National Congress and Mahatma Gandhi to the forefront of the freedom movement. This phase had a lasting impact on both Indian and British perspectives, contributing significantly to the eventual attainment of Indian independence.

QUESTION 8 :- Highlight the main events of Quit India Movement.

 Introduction:

   The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement, was a crucial moment in India’s fight for independence. It was initiated by Mahatma Gandhi on August 8, 1942, with the goal of putting an end to British rule in India. This movement became a turning point in the history of India’s struggle for freedom.

 Main Events of the Quit India Movement:

  1. Launch of the Movement: On August 8, 1942, Mahatma Gandhi made a powerful “Do or Die” speech, urging the immediate departure of the British from India. He called upon the people to engage in a non-violent struggle to achieve independence.

  2. Mass Protests and Civil Disobedience: The call to “Quit India” inspired widespread protests and acts of civil disobedience. People from all walks of life, including students, workers, and farmers, actively participated in the movement, showcasing unity in the pursuit of freedom.

  3. Repression by the British: The British authorities responded to the movement with severe repression. Thousands of activists, including top leaders, were arrested. Press freedom was curtailed through strict censorship, reflecting the British attempt to suppress the voice of dissent.

  4. Underground Resistance: Despite arrests and repression, the Quit India Movement persisted through underground activities. Secret meetings, pamphlet distribution, and acts of sabotage were carried out by those dedicated to the cause.

  5. Formation of Parallel Governments: In some regions, leaders of the movement established parallel governments to challenge British authority. These parallel administrations aimed to provide governance independent of British rule.

  6. International Impact: The Quit India Movement gained international attention, and Indian leaders sought support from other nations and international forums to put pressure on the British government.

  7. End of the Movement: The movement gradually lost momentum due to intense British repression and the arrest of key leaders. By the end of 1942, the Quit India Movement had been largely suppressed.

 Conclusion:

         The Quit India Movement stands as a milestone in India’s struggle for independence, illustrating the determination of the people to break free from colonial rule. Despite facing immense challenges, the movement left an indelible mark on history, paving the way for India’s eventual independence in 1947. The unity, resilience, and non-violent spirit demonstrated during the Quit India Movement continue to inspire generations in their pursuit of justice and freedom.

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS :-

  • Write a note on early life and role played by Gandhi during his initial days of freedom movement
  • Explain the programmes and progress of Non-Cooperation Movement
  • Briefly explain the progress of Indian Freedom Struggle between 1920-1922.
  • Describe the events leading to the Civil Disobedience Movement.
  • Highlight the main events of Quit India Movement.

Important Note for Students:-  These questions are crucial for your preparation, offering insights into exam patterns. Yet, remember to explore beyond for a comprehensive understanding.

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