This article examines the rise of revolutionary activity in the 1920s in India, focusing on the impact of disillusionment with non-violent methods and global influences.

1920s: Attraction for Revolutionary Activity after the Non-Cooperation Movement

• After the severe repression during World War I, many revolutionaries were released in early 1920 under a general amnesty.
• Many revolutionary groups joined or suspended activities during the Non-Cooperation Movement, persuaded by Gandhi and C.R. Das.
• The sudden withdrawal of the Non-Cooperation Movement left many disillusioned, leading them to question non-violent strategies and explore violent methods as an alternative.
• Prominent leaders who were part of this revival included Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee, Surya Sen, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Chandrasekhar Azad, and others.

Major Influences on Revolutionary Activity in the 1920s

• The upsurge of working-class trade unionism after World War I inspired revolutionaries to harness this new class for nationalist revolution.
• The Russian Revolution of 1917 and the success of the Soviet state provided a powerful example of revolution and consolidation.
• Newly emerging communist groups emphasized Marxism, socialism, and the proletariat, influencing revolutionary thought.
• Journals like *Atmasakti*, *Sarathi*, and *Bijoli* published memoirs and articles that celebrated revolutionary self-sacrifice.
• Novels and books like *Bandi Jiwan* by Sachin Sanyal and *Pather Dabi* by Sharatchandra Chatterjee (banned by the government, which only increased its popularity) further inspired revolutionary activity.