Mahatma Gandhi's Leadership & Non-Cooperation Movement (1915-1922)

Nationalist Resurgence during World War I & Gandhi’s Emergence

The period of World War I witnessed intense nationalist resurgence in India, setting the stage for the rise of Mahatma Gandhi as a mass leader. Economic hardships, political reforms, and growing discontent created conditions that shaped Gandhi’s leadership. This phase is crucial for UPSC Modern Indian History preparation.

Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms & Government of India Act, 1919

The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms introduced the system of dyarchy in provinces under the Government of India Act, 1919. While granting limited provincial autonomy, it kept key powers with the British. This legislation represents both progress and limitations in colonial governance, making it vital for UPSC GS1 & Prelims.

The Making of Gandhi – Early Life & Political Philosophy

The making of Mahatma Gandhi traces his early life, formative years in South Africa, and evolution of satyagraha, non-violence, and truth as guiding principles. These experiences shaped him into India’s greatest freedom leader. This background is indispensable for UPSC Modern History and essay preparation.

Gandhi in India – Arrival & Early Satyagraha Movements

After returning from South Africa in 1915, Gandhi’s role in Indian freedom struggle began with localized satyagraha movements. His leadership in Champaran, Ahmedabad, and Kheda struggles established him as the voice of the masses. This phase is a frequently tested area in UPSC Ancient & Modern History.

Champaran Satyagraha (1917) – Gandhi’s First Civil Disobedience

The Champaran Satyagraha of 1917 was Gandhi’s first mass movement in India, launched to address the plight of indigo farmers. It marked the beginning of civil disobedience in India, highlighting Gandhi’s ability to mobilize peasants. This event is a landmark in Modern Indian History UPSC.

Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918) – Gandhi’s First Hunger Strike

The Ahmedabad Mill Strike of 1918 was significant as Gandhi’s first hunger strike in India, undertaken to support textile mill workers demanding fair wages. It highlighted his philosophy of non-violent protest and concern for labor rights. This incident is vital for UPSC Prelims & GS1.

Kheda Satyagraha (1918) – First Non-Cooperation Movement

The Kheda Satyagraha of 1918 was a landmark non-cooperation movement where peasants demanded tax relief during famine. Gandhi’s leadership united farmers, strengthening the concept of peaceful resistance. This struggle reinforced his position as the leader of India’s masses and is an essential part of UPSC Modern Indian History.

Rowlatt Act, Gandhi’s Satyagraha & Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

The Rowlatt Act of 1919 imposed repressive powers, sparking Gandhi’s nationwide satyagraha. This culminated in the tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre, where hundreds were killed by British forces. The incident exposed colonial brutality and intensified nationalist struggle, making it a core topic in UPSC History.

Hunter Committee of Inquiry – Jallianwala Bagh Massacre Report

The Hunter Committee was appointed to investigate the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Its biased report attempted to justify British actions, sparking outrage among Indians and deepening the mistrust of colonial rule. This committee’s findings are a critical aspect of UPSC Modern Indian History syllabus.

The Khilafat Movement & Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Alliance

The Khilafat Movement united Indian Muslims with Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement, marking unprecedented Hindu-Muslim unity against British rule. It mobilized masses across communities, expanding the nationalist struggle. The issue holds great importance for UPSC Prelims, GS1 & Essay writing.

Non-Cooperation Movement – Khilafat Alliance & Nationalist Uprising

The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–22) was India’s first nationwide mass movement under Gandhi’s leadership. Linked with the Khilafat cause, it saw boycotts of schools, councils, and foreign goods. Despite its sudden withdrawal, it transformed Indian politics, making it a centerpiece of UPSC Modern Indian History.

Withdrawal of Non-Cooperation Movement – Gandhi’s Decision Explained

The Non-Cooperation Movement was withdrawn by Gandhi after the Chauri Chaura incident (1922), where violence erupted. His decision reflected his commitment to non-violence, though it disappointed many nationalists. This turning point in freedom struggle is repeatedly asked in UPSC Prelims & GS1.

Covers all the topics of Modern Indian History from the perspective of civil services preparation.