Indian National Congress

Definition

The Indian National Congress (INC) is a political party in India that played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule, founded in 1885. Initially formed to seek a greater share in government for educated Indians, it later transformed into a platform for nationalistic aspirations, championing self-rule and civil rights for the Indian populace. The INC became the primary vehicle for anti-colonial nationalism in India, organizing mass movements and negotiations that ultimately led to India's independence in 1947.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Indian National Congress was established by a group of nationalists who aimed to bring together educated Indians to discuss political reforms and rights.
2. The INC's early years focused on constitutional reforms and seeking greater representation for Indians in British governance but shifted towards full independence under leaders like Mahatma Gandhi.
3. Mahatma Gandhi became a key figure in the INC, advocating for nonviolent resistance and mobilizing millions of Indians in the struggle against British rule.
4. The INC faced internal divisions, particularly between moderates who favored gradual reforms and radicals who sought immediate independence through mass action.
5. The success of the INC culminated in the Indian Independence Act of 1947, which resulted in the end of British rule and the establishment of India as a sovereign nation.

Review Questions

• How did the goals of the Indian National Congress evolve from its founding to the time of India's independence?
  • Initially, the Indian National Congress aimed to secure more rights and representation for educated Indians within the British colonial framework. Over time, especially under the influence of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, its goals shifted towards complete independence from British rule. This transformation was marked by the INC's increasing mobilization of mass support and grassroots movements, emphasizing self-rule and national sovereignty.
• Analyze the impact of Gandhi’s philosophy on the strategies employed by the Indian National Congress during the independence movement.
  • Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence fundamentally reshaped the strategies of the Indian National Congress during the independence movement. His approach emphasized civil disobedience, peaceful protests, and boycotts against British goods. This not only mobilized millions across diverse social strata but also garnered international attention and sympathy for the Indian cause. The success of campaigns such as the Salt March showcased the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance as a tool for challenging colonial authority.
• Evaluate the significance of the Quit India Movement in relation to the overall objectives of the Indian National Congress and its impact on British policy.
  • The Quit India Movement of 1942 represented a critical turning point for the Indian National Congress as it called for immediate British withdrawal from India. The movement unified various sections of society under a common cause, demonstrating widespread dissatisfaction with colonial rule. Although it was met with severe repression from British authorities, it heightened international awareness of India's struggle and put pressure on Britain to reconsider its stance. Ultimately, this intensified urgency contributed to Britain's decision to grant independence in 1947.

Related terms

Gandhi's Nonviolent Resistance: A strategy of nonviolent protest led by Mahatma Gandhi, focusing on civil disobedience and passive resistance to oppose British rule.

Partition of India: The division of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, in 1947, largely influenced by religious differences and tensions during the nationalist movement.

Quit India Movement: A major campaign launched by the INC in 1942 demanding an end to British rule in India, marked by mass protests and civil disobedience.