Indian History With Reference to Indian Freedom Struggle
India's quest for freedom originated from early confrontations with European powers, notably the British East India Company's dominance in the 18th century. Resistance grew through local revolts and tribal uprisings. The pivotal 1857 Revolt, termed the First War of Independence, symbolized organized opposition as Indian soldiers rebelled against British rule, setting the stage for a prolonged struggle culminating in India's eventual independence in 1947. Here's a detailed timeline of important events in the Indian freedom struggle from 1857 to 1947 :
List of Important Events During The Indian Freedom Struggle [1857-1947]
Important Year & Events
1857
The Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the First War of Independence, marks a major uprising against British rule.
1885
Formation of the Indian National Congress (INC) with the objective of seeking greater political representation for Indians within the British administration.
1905
Partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon sparks widespread protests and the emergence of the Swadeshi Movement advocating self- reliance and boycott of British goods.
1906
Formation of the All-India Muslim League, marking the beginning of organized political efforts by Muslims for their rights and representation.
1909
The Morley-Minto Reforms introduce separate electorates for Muslims in India, further dividing Indian political representation.
1911
The capital of British India shifts from Calcutta to Delhi.
1913
Formation of the Ghadar Party by Indian expatriates in the United States, marking the beginning of the Ghadar Movement aimed at armed struggle against British rule.
1914
Komagata Maru incident occurs when a ship carrying Indian immigrants is denied entry into Canada, highlighting discriminatory policies and sparking protests.
1915
Gandhi returns to India from South Africa, initiating his active involvement in the freedom struggle.
1916
Home Rule Movement launched by Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Annie Besant, advocating self-governance within the British Empire.
1917
Champaran Satyagraha, Gandhi's first non-violent protest in India, against exploitative indigo planters in Bihar, becomes a model for future Satyagraha movements.
1919
The Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar, where British troops open fire on unarmed civilians, becomes a turning point in public sentiment against British rule.
1920-22
Khilafat & Non-Cooperation Movement: First Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi gains significant traction across the country, urging Indians to boycott British institutions and goods.
1922
Suspension of Non-Cooperation Movement after the Chauri Chaura incident, where protesters turn violent, leading to Gandhi's call for introspection and discipline.
1928
Simon Commission arrives in India to review the Government of India Act of 1919, leading to widespread protests as it lacked Indian representation.
1929
Jawaharlal Nehru presents the "Purna Swaraj" (Complete Independence) resolution at the Lahore session of the Indian National Congress.
1930
Launch of the Civil Disobedience Movement by Gandhi with the Salt Satyagraha,Dandi March as a prominent symbol of resistance against British salt laws.
1931
Gandhi-Irwin Pact signed, leading to the end of Civil Disobedience Movement and release of political prisoners.
1932
Communal Award announced by British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald, granting separate electorates to Dalits (Depressed Classes).
1935
Government of India Act 1935 passed, introducing limited provincial autonomy but falling short of Indian aspirations for full self-rule.
1940
Individual Satyagraha launched by Gandhi against the August Offer, marking a phase of individual protests against British policies.
1942
Launch of the Quit India Movement by the Indian National Congress, demanding immediate British withdrawal from India.
1942
Subhas Chandra Bose forms the Indian National Army (INA) in collaboration with Axis powers, aiming to liberate India from British rule.
1945
End of World War II brings international pressure on Britain to address Indian aspirations for self-rule and independence.
1946
Direct Action Day called by the Muslim League leads to communal violence in Calcutta, foreshadowing the partition of India.
1947
Indian Independence Act passed by the British Parliament, leading to the partition of India and Pakistan on August 15, 1947. India gains independence with Jawaharlal Nehru as its first Prime Minister.