Indian National Congress

Definition

The Indian National Congress (INC) is a political party in India that was founded in 1885, originally as a platform for educated Indians to voice their concerns to the British colonial government. Over time, it evolved into a major political force advocating for Indian independence and played a crucial role in the struggle against colonial rule, representing diverse social groups and ideologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Indian National Congress was established in 1885 and became the principal organization advocating for Indian self-rule.
2. Initially, the INC sought reforms within the British colonial framework but gradually shifted its focus towards complete independence after World War I.
3. Gandhi's leadership in the 1920s and 1930s transformed the INC into a mass movement, drawing support from various segments of Indian society.
4. The INC played a pivotal role in key events such as the Salt March in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942, which demanded an end to British rule.
5. After years of struggle, India achieved independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, largely due to the efforts of the INC and its leaders.

Review Questions

• How did the Indian National Congress evolve from its inception to becoming a major political force for independence?
  • The Indian National Congress started in 1885 as a forum for educated Indians to engage with British authorities regarding political reforms. As dissatisfaction with colonial rule grew, particularly after World War I, the INC shifted its agenda towards complete independence. The leadership of figures like Gandhi helped transform the INC into a mass movement that mobilized widespread support across various social classes, making it a key player in the fight for Indian self-rule.
• What strategies did the Indian National Congress employ during the independence movement to challenge British colonial authority?
  • The Indian National Congress utilized various strategies during the independence movement, including mass protests, civil disobedience campaigns, and negotiations with British officials. Under Gandhi's influence, nonviolent resistance became a hallmark of their approach. Events such as the Salt March exemplified this strategy, uniting people from different backgrounds against unjust laws imposed by British authorities. These efforts helped raise awareness and garnered international support for India's struggle for independence.
• Evaluate the impact of the Indian National Congress on post-colonial India and its significance in shaping modern Indian identity.
  • The Indian National Congress had a profound impact on post-colonial India as it laid the foundation for democratic governance and political pluralism. The INC's emphasis on unity among diverse groups fostered a sense of national identity that transcended regional and communal divisions. Additionally, its role in establishing key institutions and policies has shaped contemporary Indian politics. However, challenges remain, such as addressing social inequalities and ensuring representation for all citizens, which can be traced back to dynamics established during the INC's leadership in the independence struggle.

Related terms

Mohandas Gandhi: A key leader of the Indian independence movement who promoted nonviolent 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 was influenced by tensions between different religious communities.

Civil Disobedience Movement: A campaign launched by the INC under Gandhi's leadership to resist British rule through nonviolent means, including the refusal to obey unjust laws.