Indian National Congress

Definition

The Indian National Congress is a political party in India that was founded in 1885, playing a crucial role in the Indian independence movement against British rule. It aimed to represent the interests of Indians and sought self-governance, eventually advocating for complete independence from colonial rule during the early 20th century, significantly influencing the rise of nationalist sentiments and global economic connections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Indian National Congress was founded by a group of educated Indians in 1885 with the goal of obtaining a greater share in government for educated Indians.
2. The party initially sought reforms within the framework of British rule but later shifted towards demanding complete independence as nationalist sentiments grew stronger.
3. Key figures such as Jawaharlal Nehru and Mohandas Gandhi emerged as leaders within the Indian National Congress, shaping its ideology and strategies.
4. The INC organized various movements, including the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Quit India Movement, which mobilized millions across India against British rule.
5. By 1947, due to sustained pressure from the INC and widespread civil disobedience, Britain eventually agreed to grant India independence.

Review Questions

• How did the Indian National Congress evolve in its goals from its founding in 1885 to the early 20th century?
  • Initially, the Indian National Congress focused on seeking greater representation for Indians within British governance. However, as discontent grew due to oppressive colonial policies and economic exploitation, the INC shifted its goals towards complete independence. This transformation was driven by grassroots movements and influential leaders like Gandhi and Nehru, who emphasized self-rule and non-violent resistance as essential means for achieving their objectives.
• Evaluate the impact of the Indian National Congress on India's struggle for independence and its influence on global movements against colonialism.
  • The Indian National Congress played a pivotal role in mobilizing the Indian populace against British colonial rule. Through organized protests and campaigns like the Swadeshi Movement and Quit India Movement, it galvanized public support for independence. The strategies employed by the INC, particularly non-violent civil disobedience led by figures like Gandhi, inspired similar movements worldwide, highlighting the interconnectedness of anti-colonial struggles across different nations.
• Discuss how the formation of the Indian National Congress contributed to changing perceptions of nationalism in a global economic context during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • The formation of the Indian National Congress marked a significant shift in how nationalism was perceived within the context of colonialism and global economics. As it promoted self-governance and economic independence from Britain, it challenged not only British dominance but also advocated for economic policies that prioritized local industries over imported goods. This nationalist sentiment resonated globally as various countries began to seek independence from colonial powers, demonstrating a broader trend where economic self-sufficiency became intertwined with national identity.

Related terms

Swadeshi Movement: A key movement launched in response to British economic policies, encouraging Indian self-sufficiency and the boycott of British goods.

Mohandas Gandhi: A prominent leader of the Indian independence movement who advocated for non-violent resistance and civil disobedience against British rule.

Partition of India: The division of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, in 1947, which resulted from the growing tensions between Hindu and Muslim communities.