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, it served as a platform for expressing nationalist sentiments and organizing efforts for self-governance, eventually evolving into a major political force that sought to represent the interests of diverse Indian communities and promote social and economic reforms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The INC initially aimed to create a platform for discussing the concerns of educated Indians under British rule, but it gradually adopted more radical demands for self-governance as the independence movement gained momentum.
2. Prominent leaders of the INC included figures like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Mahatma Gandhi, who shaped its direction and strategies during the struggle for independence.
3. The INC was instrumental in uniting various Indian communities across regions and religions to mobilize against colonial oppression and promote a shared national identity.
4. The party's leadership adopted non-violent methods as a core principle of their struggle, especially under Gandhi's influence, which distinguished their approach from other contemporary movements worldwide.
5. After India's independence in 1947, the INC became the dominant political party in the country, shaping its early governance and policies while addressing issues of unity and social justice.

Review Questions

• How did the formation of the Indian National Congress contribute to the emergence of nationalist sentiments in India?
  • The formation of the Indian National Congress provided a unified platform for educated Indians to voice their concerns under British colonial rule. Initially focused on moderate reforms, it evolved to advocate for self-governance, which galvanized various groups across different regions and communities. This collective effort helped cultivate a sense of nationalism and unity among Indians, fostering a broader movement that ultimately aimed for complete independence from British rule.
• Analyze the impact of Gandhi's philosophy on the strategies employed by the Indian National Congress during the struggle for independence.
  • Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience profoundly influenced the strategies of the Indian National Congress during the struggle for independence. His approach encouraged mass participation from diverse segments of society, transcending class and caste divisions. By promoting peaceful protests, boycotts, and non-cooperation with British authorities, Gandhi helped mobilize millions to actively oppose colonial rule, transforming the INC into a mass movement that resonated with the aspirations of everyday Indians.
• Evaluate how the Indian National Congress addressed internal divisions within Indian society while pursuing its goals for independence.
  • The Indian National Congress faced significant internal divisions due to India's vast diversity in religion, language, and culture. The party sought to bridge these gaps by emphasizing a shared national identity that transcended communal differences. Initiatives were undertaken to include various social groups and advocate for their rights, which helped unify different factions towards common goals. However, these efforts were complex and challenging, particularly as religious tensions escalated leading up to independence, ultimately impacting the INC's ability to maintain cohesion amidst calls for partition.

Related terms

Mahatma Gandhi: A key leader in the Indian independence movement, known for his philosophy of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience against British rule.

Quit India Movement: A mass protest launched by the INC in 1942 demanding an end to British rule in India, marked by widespread civil disobedience and non-cooperation.

Partition of India: The division of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, in 1947, which resulted in significant political upheaval and communal violence.