Question

Explain the role of Gandhiji in the Indian National movement.

Hint:

To explain Gandhi's role, focus on his three key contributions: 1. Unique Method (Satyagraha/Non-violence), 2. Mass Mobilization (making it a movement for everyone), and 3. Leadership of the three major national campaigns (Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, Quit India).

Answer 1

Mahatma Gandhi was the pre-eminent leader of the Indian National Movement from 1919 until India's independence in 1947. His role was transformative, as he converted the movement from a limited, middle-class struggle into a mass movement that mobilized millions of ordinary Indians.
His key contributions include: \begin{enumerate} \item Introduction of Satyagraha: Gandhi introduced the powerful new methods of Satyagraha (insistence on truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence) as tools for political struggle. He demonstrated their effectiveness in his early campaigns at Champaran (1917), Kheda (1918), and Ahmedabad (1918). \item Mass Mobilization: He had an unparalleled ability to connect with the masses—peasants, workers, women, and students. He transformed the Indian National Congress from an elite body into a mass-based organization with a presence in villages across the country. \item Leadership of Major National Movements: He led three major pan-India movements that shook the foundations of the British Raj: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22): He called for a boycott of British institutions—schools, courts, and councils—and the promotion of Swadeshi (indigenous goods).} \\ \bullet & \text{The Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34): Launched with the iconic Dandi Salt March, this movement involved the widespread and peaceful defiance of unjust British laws.} \\ \bullet & \text{The Quit India Movement (1942): He gave the call of "Do or Die," demanding an immediate end to British rule. This was the most powerful mass movement for India's freedom.} \\ \end{array}\] \item Emphasis on Social Reforms: Gandhi did not see independence merely as a political goal. He worked tirelessly for Hindu-Muslim unity, the upliftment of untouchables (whom he called Harijans), and the empowerment of women, believing that social reform was essential for a truly free India. \end{enumerate} In essence, Gandhiji's leadership, unique methods, and inclusive vision were the central force that ultimately led to India's independence.