Overview
The Indian independence movement was a series of historic events with the goal of ending British rule in India. The movement lasted for almost 90 years, from the rebellion of 1857 to the independence of India on August 15, 1947.
Key Events
The Rebellion of 1857
Also known as India's First War of Independence, it was a major uprising against the British East India Company. Though it was suppressed, it marked the beginning of the struggle for freedom.
Formation of Indian National Congress (1885)
The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded by A. O. Hume to provide a platform for Indians to express their grievances and demand reforms.
Partition of Bengal (1905)
The British decision to partition Bengal led to widespread protests and the Swadeshi movement, which promoted Indian-made goods and boycotted British products.
Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919)
British troops fired on a peaceful gathering in Amritsar, killing hundreds of Indians. This event galvanized the freedom movement and led to widespread outrage.
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22)
Led by Mahatma Gandhi, this was the first mass movement against British rule, calling for non-violent resistance and non-cooperation with the British.
Dandi March (1930)
Gandhi's 240-mile march to Dandi to produce salt in defiance of the British salt tax became a symbol of resistance.
Quit India Movement (1942)
Gandhi called for "Do or Die" and demanded immediate British withdrawal from India, leading to mass protests and arrests.
Key Leaders
- Mahatma Gandhi: Father of the Nation, advocated for non-violent resistance
- Jawaharlal Nehru: First Prime Minister of India
- Subhash Chandra Bose: Leader of the Indian National Army
- Bhagat Singh: Revolutionary who fought for independence
- Sardar Patel: Iron Man of India who united the princely states
- Maulana Abul Kalam Azad: Freedom fighter and educationist
Independence and Partition (1947)
On August 15, 1947, India gained independence from British rule. However, the country was partitioned into India and Pakistan, leading to one of the largest mass migrations in history and communal violence.