Background

The Indian National Movement was not a sudden revolution but a long-drawn struggle spanning more than six decades. It evolved gradually through different phases reflecting the political awakening and maturity of Indian society. The movement can be divided into three main phases — the Moderate Phase (1885–1905), the Extremist Phase (1905–1919), and the Gandhian Phase (1919–1947). Each phase had distinct leaders, methods, and objectives, but the common goal remained the same — the freedom of India from British rule.

Main Provisions and Key Facts

  1. Moderate Phase (1885–1905)
    • This phase began with the formation of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885 by A.O. Hume.
    • The major leaders were Dadabhai Naoroji, Surendranath Banerjee, Pherozeshah Mehta, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Anand Charlu.
    • Known as the “Moderates” or “Naram Dal”, their approach was constitutional and loyal to the British Crown.
    • They believed in petitions, resolutions, and meetings to demand reforms.
    • Major demands included Indian representation in the Legislative Councils, civil service reforms, reduction in land revenue, and expansion of education.
    • Dadabhai Naoroji’s theory of the “Drain of Wealth” became the intellectual foundation for national awakening.
  2. Extremist Phase (1905–1919)
    • This phase began with the Partition of Bengal in 1905, which aroused strong nationalist feelings.
    • The leaders were Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai — collectively known as “Lal, Bal, Pal”.
    • Known as the “Extremists” or “Garam Dal”, they believed that freedom could only be achieved through struggle, self-reliance, and direct action.
    • They advocated for “Swaraj” as a birthright and promoted Swadeshi (use of Indian goods) and Boycott (of British goods) movements.
    • Tilak used festivals like Ganesh Utsav and Shivaji Jayanti to spread nationalism.
    • This period also saw the rise of revolutionary activities and secret societies.
    • The 1916 Lucknow Pact united the Moderates, Extremists, and Muslim League, paving the way for future cooperation.
  3. Gandhian Phase (1919–1947)
    • Marked by the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, this phase transformed the freedom struggle into a mass movement.
    • Gandhi introduced the methods of Non-Violence (Ahimsa) and Satyagraha (truthful resistance).
    • Major movements launched during this period:
      a. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–22)
      b. Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–34)
      c. Quit India Movement (1942)
    • Other significant events: Jallianwala Bagh massacre (1919), Dandi March (1930), Round Table Conferences (1930–32).
    • The role of Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army (INA) also became significant towards the end.
    • Ultimately, India attained independence on 15 August 1947.

Significance

  • The three phases reflect the evolution of political thought from loyal reformism to mass struggle.
  • They show how nationalism deepened — from urban elites to peasants, women, and workers.
  • The Gandhian phase gave a moral and spiritual dimension to the freedom struggle, making it unique in world history.
  • The movement built a democratic, secular, and united foundation for independent India.

Criticism or Limitations

  • The Moderate phase was criticized for being too submissive and slow.
  • Extremist leaders, though passionate, lacked organizational unity and clear long-term strategy.
  • Gandhian methods, while moral, were sometimes criticized for being too idealistic and for withdrawing movements abruptly (e.g., after Chauri Chaura incident).

Key Points for Exams

  1. Indian National Congress founded: 1885 by A.O. Hume
  2. Partition of Bengal: 1905
  3. Slogan “Swaraj is my birthright”: Bal Gangadhar Tilak
  4. Lucknow Pact: 1916
  5. Non-Cooperation Movement: 1920–22
  6. Civil Disobedience Movement: 1930–34
  7. Quit India Movement: 1942
  8. Independence: 15 August 1947
  9. Important Leaders: Dadabhai Naoroji, Tilak, Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal, Gandhi, Nehru, Subhas Bose.

In Short

The Indian National Movement progressed through three distinct phases —

  1. Moderate (1885–1905): Reform and petition.
  2. Extremist (1905–1919): Struggle and swadeshi.
  3. Gandhian (1919–1947): Non-violence and mass awakening — culminating in India’s independence.